A father in Kentucky’s life took an unexpected turn when he and his wife became parents to quintuplets. However, he wasn’t prepared for the intense backlash and judgment that would follow due to the way he chose to raise his children.
Being a parent is already a 24/7 responsibility, often feeling like a full-time job. Parents constantly find themselves learning new techniques and strategies on the go. Despite their best efforts, perfection is elusive, and things become even more complicated when there are multiple children to care for.
Despite the exhaustion and sacrifices, the happiness that comes with parenting makes it all worthwhile. Unfortunately, many don’t fully understand the endless efforts parents put in for their children, and those on the outside can be incredibly harsh in their judgments.
THE HAPPY FAMILY OF SEVEN
Jordan Driskell and his wife Briana were thrilled by their five amazing children: Zoey, Dakota, Hollyn, Asher, and Gavin. While raising quintuplets brought about major life changes, the couple cherished every moment of the journey.
Many online users weren’t impressed with Jordan’s parenting choices, and they made their opinions abundantly clear.
They had to invent numerous inventive parenting strategies to keep their busy household running smoothly and ensure the kids were safe and happy. Managing everything required constant attention, and dad Jordan was always enthusiastic about spending quality time with his little ones.
THE CHALLENGES OF LEAVING THE HOUSE
Taking all five kids for a fun outing or just a trip to the park may sound like a great idea, but Jordan quickly realized it came with its own unique set of hurdles.
Leaving the house with five little ones was nothing short of a major operation. Initially, Jordan and Briana used a six-seater stroller to help get their kids around. However, they soon discovered that the large, cumbersome stroller wasn’t as practical as they’d hoped, prompting them to search for more efficient alternatives.
THEIR PARENTING APPROACH
The devoted parents adopted a leash system when taking their five children out—and it proved effective for their family! The proud father shared:
“Kids are so curious — they want to run off and explore. 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 Driskell and his five kids. | Source: Tiktok.com/drixxleman
THE DAD’S REASONING BEHIND THE LEASH
Jordan explained that his choice to use a leash was driven by his children’s desire for independence, particularly in busy environments. His top priority was keeping them safe, and the leash helped prevent any of them from getting separated.
This simple solution gave his kids the freedom they wanted, while also offering their parents a sense of security. However, when Jordan shared a video in 2022, he was quickly met with backlash from viewers who didn’t agree with his approach.
The kids were enjoying themselves at the aquarium—but with leashes on. The video quickly gained traction online, sparking intense reactions from people.
Jordan Driskell and his five kids. | Source: Tiktok.com/drixxleman
HARSH CRITICISMS
Many people online didn’t hesitate to voice their disapproval of Jordan’s parenting choices. Some questioned his decisions, with one commenter even suggesting that if he couldn’t manage the responsibility of raising five children, he should have reconsidered having so many.
“This is deeply disturbing. Teach your kids to behave so you don’t have to use a dog leash. Not cool.”
– (@maureenmurphygrzyb) August 2, 2022
“Bro they’re missing muzzles.”
– (@dtdjt091909) August 3, 2022
“They need to learn to listen to you and they need to learn to be independent. If you can’t control them them don’t have them.”
– (@Ada Hunter) August 3, 2022
“Leashes on kids should be illegal. You have your opinions but it’s just wrong, even rabbits don’t go on leashes, why should children?”
– (@_..maybe_) August 1, 2022
ENCOURAGING RESPONSES
The comment section also saw encouraging responses, with many parents expressing admiration for the dad’s approach. Moms and dads applauded Jordan for prioritizing his family’s safety, while others appreciated the creative solution to managing a big family in public. Several commenters shared their own experiences, acknowledging the challenges of raising multiple kids and supporting his decision.
“I said, ‘I’ll NEVER put my kids on a leash!’ As a mother with two energetic toddlers at the same time, I grabbed the first monkey backpacks with leashes I could get my hands on!”
– (@authortraciejohnson) August 3, 2022
“Anyone who disagrees with his method has never taken care of five toddlers at one time! Even preschools use a rope system to walk to the playground.”
– (@graftymarie89) August 3, 2022
“I had one for my daughter – nothing wrong with it – she was able to run around but close enough to me in a crowd.”
– (@Ligita212) July 31, 2022
“If you are being judged for protecting your children, then the judgmental folks have no clue about the value of life on any level.”
– (mboyd1990) July 31, 2022
@driskell_quints_dad They don’t know the struggle! #parentsoftiktok #momsoftiktok #dadsoftiktok #foryou #fyp #dad #mom ♬ Vegas (From the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack ELVIS) – Doja Cat
DIFFERING PROFESSIONAL OPINIONS ON PARENTING TECHNIQUES
Dr. Deborah Gilboa, a well-known expert in parenting and child development, expressed her approval of using a leash, labeling it as “creative problem-solving.” She added:
“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.”
Concerns About Leash Injuries
Another pediatrician offered a contrasting perspective. He shared that he disagreed with the use of leashes on children, arguing that this approach essentially treated them as if they were animals. The expert elaborated:
“As the father of three, I am well aware of how quick, impulsive, and unpredictable kids can be. But from an injury standpoint, I would worry about entanglement or choking.”
@driskell_quints_dad Replying to @sagegarrett_jail_drugs I only did this because my wife was with me #karen #karens #parents #parentsoftiktok #momsoftiktok #dadsoftiktok #excercise #mom #dad ♬ Vegas (From the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack ELVIS) – Doja Cat
Questions to Consider:
Is the father’s choice to use a leash an acceptable way to manage his children?
Parents go to great lengths to ensure their children’s well-being. Moms and dads, who know their children best, should have the freedom to choose what works for them, as long as it doesn’t cause harm to anyone.
What could be a different approach for the father of five?
It’s easy to criticize, but often, people don’t offer alternative solutions for parents facing challenges. For moms and dads struggling to keep track of multiple children, seeking extra assistance could be a helpful option. Maybe a family member or friend could join in while running errands, reducing the need for a leash.