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Life Stories 21/06/2025 14:58

The Judgment of Parenting: A Mother’s Honest Story About Using a Backpack Leash for Her Child

A mother shares her experience with judgment while using a backpack leash for her son, who was born with a rough start. A heartfelt story about the challenges of parenting a hyperactive child and why it’s important to avoid judging others.

Today was a tough day for one mother, who, while reflecting on her experiences, felt the weight of shame and embarrassment. Though she knew deep down that she shouldn’t feel this way, the challenges of parenting had caught up with her.

Her family and friends are aware that her son is adopted and was born addicted to drugs. As a result, he has more energy and speed than most children his age—just 21 months old. However, aside from his rough start, the mother acknowledges that she doesn’t know much about his biological family or their genetics. It’s possible that his hyperactivity is influenced by factors outside of her control, but this isn’t something she can always explain to others.

The issue arises when people who don’t know her or her son offer judgment. The "Karens" and "Susans" of the world fail to understand the backstory or the efforts the mother puts into parenting her child.

One tool the mother uses to ensure her son’s safety is a backpack leash. She openly admits that she was once one of those people who thought, “I would never put my kid on a leash. How could anyone not control their child?” But once she became a mother, she realized the reality of the situation. Every parent has made that statement before having children, but once you’re in the thick of it, things are very different.

Her son, full of energy, runs faster than she can keep up with, and due to complications from her hysterectomy, she sometimes struggles to chase after him. It's important to note that she wasn’t always unable to keep up—before her surgery, she was an avid runner. She’s not lazy; it’s simply a physical limitation she faces now.

Her son also despises being confined to one spot, whether it’s a car seat, high chair, stroller, or even a shopping cart. As a result, the mother often uses services like Shipt to avoid taking him out. But life doesn’t always allow for such conveniences, and sometimes, getting things done requires going out, despite the challenges.

There have been times when she had to leave stores in tears, unable to finish her shopping because of a meltdown from her son. During those moments, she has faced dirty looks and rude comments from strangers.

However, today was particularly difficult. When she took her son to Target, he wore his backpack leash. Despite the potential stigma, he did wonderfully—he was happy, laughing, smiling, and running around, but staying close to her. Yet, she still received side-eyes and judgment from several people, which made her want to grab her items and leave.

She couldn’t understand why people felt the need to judge her. What works for one child may not work for another. While little Lucy might never have meltdowns, her son’s needs were different. Her son, who hasn’t started talking yet, is in speech and occupational therapy and is making progress, but there are still challenges. He’s a joyful, beautiful child with boundless energy.

The mother emphasizes that she’s not sharing this for pity or sympathy, but as a reminder for those who judge parents using leashes for their kids. Her son doesn’t have a disability; he’s simply a runner. The neighbors know this and often chase after him too, offering help when needed.

Parenting isn’t easy, and it often requires a support system—a “village.” And in this case, her village is amazing, offering her the strength and understanding needed to raise a child with such high energy.

Credit to the rightful owner for sharing this heartfelt and inspiring story of a mother’s dedication to her child’s well-being.

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