Raising children today can be a challenge on its own. Young parents not only hear opinions from family members but also have to deal with random strangers online commenting on their parenting choices.
Jordan Driskell is a young father of five quintuplets, all of whom are 5 years old. As you can imagine, caring for five children the same age can be exhausting—especially at 5, when kids are curious and eager to explore. So 31‑year‑old dad Jordan Driskell came up with a creative solution. He bought child leashes to help manage his energetic little ones when they’re out in public together.
In the past, the Driskells used a 6‑seat stroller for their large family. But that quickly became tiring, as the kids would get restless inside it, and the stroller itself was incredibly inconvenient to take anywhere.
Using leashes allows the children to wander and explore safely while their dad keeps control and doesn’t lose sight of them. However, when Driskell posted a video of the family’s trip to the aquarium, the parents received a wave of negative feedback. The video of the kids on leashes went viral, gaining over 3 million views. Hundreds of people commented that children are not animals and shouldn’t be leashed.
Others wrote, “If you can’t handle the pressure, don’t have so many kids.”
Some offered criticism disguised as advice: “Can’t you just properly train your children? Explain to them why running off is dangerous.”
But Dr. Deborah Gilboa, an expert in parenting and adolescent development, had a different perspective. She does not believe a leash makes a child feel like an animal. And if the alternative is staying home, then a leash is clearly the better option.
Dr. Gilboa explained that leashes can be very useful for younger children or neurodiverse children who need extra support in public settings. However, she noted that if a neurotypical child is still on a leash at eight or nine years old and hasn’t developed listening skills, that could be a concern.
By that age, parents should be able to communicate effectively with their children without relying on tools like leashes.
Parents deserve the freedom to raise their children in the way that works best for them—without unnecessary judgment from society.
What do you think about children using leashes in public? Share your thoughts in the comments below. And pass this article along to friends and family to hear their opinions too!
