Jordan Driskell, a 31-year-old father, is facing online criticism for using a leash to walk his 5-year-old quintuplets in public. Jordan explained that children of their age are naturally curious and inclined to explore. The family uses leashes to ensure their own peace of mind and safety, as well as to engage in enjoyable family activities without feeling rushed.
Previously, Jordan and his wife, Briana, 34, used a 6-seat stroller, but they found it impractical to bring along due to its size. In busy places, the children prefer to wander, and using leashes allows them to do so while maintaining control. The quintuplets themselves enjoy the experience.
Jordan faced public ridicule after posting a video of the quintuplets on leashes during a visit to an aquarium. Although the video was originally released last year, it recently went viral, amassing over three million views and counting.
The video was released last year, but it has just gone viral, with over three million views and counting.
Some of the comments in his feed include: “They are humans, not dogs.”
“Can’t you just properly train your children?” Discuss to them why fleeing is risky.”
“If you can’t manage the pressure, don’t have so many kids.”
“That’s a disaster. If you can’t handle that many kids, don’t get kids at all.”
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Dr. Deborah Gilboa, a specialist in parenting and adolescent development, offered a different perspective on the matter. She highlighted that Georgia’s anti-abortion law allowing tax breaks for fetuses can be seen as an innovative solution to a complex issue. Gilboa emphasized that this approach does not equate to treating children as animals and argued that the alternative would be for parents to simply stay at home.
Gilboa urged people to exercise moderation in their judgments. She explained that using leashes can be a valuable tool, especially for parents of neurodiverse children or those who haven’t yet mastered their listening skills. Gilboa emphasized that the majority of parents strive to do what’s best for their children and resort to such measures to address specific challenges. Just because one may not visibly perceive the problem doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.
According to Gilboa, neurotypical children should be capable of being off leash and responsive to voice control by the age of eight or nine. By that stage, parents should have alternative systems in place to ensure their children’s safety in public. Gilboa added that using a leash in seventh grade would be considered unusual.
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