Parenting is a journey filled with joy, challenges, and, unfortunately, criticism from outsiders who may not understand the full picture. A Kentucky father, Jordan Driskell, found himself at the center of an online storm after sharing a video of his five young children on a leash during a family outing. While some praised his practical parenting approach, others harshly judged him, claiming it was dehumanizing. But is using a leash really a problem, or is it just a misunderstood tool for keeping kids safe?
The Reality of Parenting Quintuplets
Raising a child is no easy feat, let alone five at the same time. Jordan and his wife, Briana, became parents to quintuplets—Zoey, Dakota, Hollyn, Asher, and Gavin—bringing both immense joy and significant responsibility into their lives.
Managing five young children in public spaces isn’t just a challenge—it’s a logistical nightmare. Parents of single children may struggle to keep their little ones in check at the grocery store, so imagine the level of effort required to manage five toddlers at once.
For the Driskells, a six-seater stroller worked for a while, but it was bulky and difficult to maneuver. Looking for a better solution, they turned to a method that gave their children freedom while ensuring their safety: a child leash.
Why Did They Use a Leash?
According to Jordan, the leash wasn’t about control—it was about safety. Kids are naturally curious, and in crowded spaces, they can easily wander off in an instant. The leash provided peace of mind while allowing the kids to walk and explore without the risk of getting lost.
“For our own peace of mind and sanity, we use a leash. It also allows us to leave the house and do fun stuff as a family without being stressed,” Jordan explained.
In a world where child abduction and accidents are very real dangers, can anyone really blame parents for prioritizing safety?
Backlash: The Internet’s Harsh Judgment
When Jordan shared a video of his kids at an aquarium, attached to a child leash, the internet had a lot to say—some of it supportive, but much of it negative.
Critics called the practice “inhumane” and accused Jordan of treating his children like animals. One particularly harsh comment read:
“If you can’t handle five kids, maybe you shouldn’t have had them.”
It’s easy for strangers to pass judgment from behind a screen, but do they truly understand what it takes to raise quintuplets safely?
Support from Fellow Parents
Fortunately, not all reactions were negative. Many parents applauded Jordan’s method, recognizing that his priority was the safety of his children.
“I’d rather have my kids on a leash than have them run into traffic,” one supportive parent commented.
Others pointed out that many parents use similar techniques, such as wrist harnesses and backpacks with built-in leashes. These tools are designed to help parents manage active children in public spaces, especially when multiple kids are involved.
Expert Opinions: Safety vs. Stigma
The debate over child leashes has been ongoing for years, and experts have differing opinions on the matter.
In Favor of Leashes
Dr. Deborah Gilboa, a parenting and youth development expert, supports the use of leashes, calling it a “creative problem-solving” technique. She believes that the alternative—keeping children confined at home—would be far worse.
“This isn’t treating kids like animals. The alternative would be just staying at home … Just because you can’t identify with the problem doesn’t mean it’s not there,” Dr. Gilboa stated.
Against Leashes
On the other hand, some pediatricians argue against using leashes, believing they create an unhealthy dynamic between parents and children. One pediatrician pointed out concerns about entanglement or choking hazards, stating:
“As a father of three, I understand how unpredictable kids can be. But from an injury standpoint, a leash worries me.”
Ultimately, like many parenting choices, the decision to use a leash depends on individual circumstances.
Are Leashes Necessary or Are There Alternatives?
While leashes can be practical, some parents might prefer alternatives, such as:
- Holding Hands: Effective for one or two children, but not always feasible with five.
- Hand-Holding Chains: Some parents use colorful hand-holding ropes to keep kids together in a line.
- More Supervision: Bringing additional adults, such as family members or friends, can help manage multiple kids in public.
- Teaching Boundaries Early: Encouraging children to stay close and respond to verbal cues can reduce the need for physical restraints.
Each method has its pros and cons, and what works for one family may not work for another.
Final Thoughts: Should Parents Be Judged?
The backlash against Jordan Driskell is a prime example of how the internet can be quick to judge without fully understanding the situation. Parenting is not one-size-fits-all, and what might seem excessive to some could be a necessity for others.
When it comes down to it, a parent’s number one job is to keep their children safe. If using a leash helps them do that, should they really be shamed for it?
Instead of passing judgment, perhaps we should focus on supporting parents who are doing their best in challenging circumstances. Because at the end of the day, what matters most is the well-being of the children.
