California Mom Sparks Heated Debate by Using Leash on Daughter During Grocery Shopping Trip
LOS BANOS, CA — Alexis Solis, a stay-at-home mom from Los Banos, California, has found herself at the center of a heated online debate after sharing a TikTok video of her using a toddler leash on her daughter while shopping at a grocery store. The video, which has since garnered over 12 million views, sparked fierce reactions, with critics and supporters alike weighing in on her parenting choice.
Solis, a former behavioral analysis therapist and mother of two, regularly uses her social media platform to advocate for child safety and parenting tips. However, her latest post showcasing her use of the leash attracted considerable backlash, with many viewers expressing their disapproval.
Viral Video Sparks Backlash
In the video, Solis is seen calmly asking her daughter to extend her hand as she secures the leash around her wrist in the middle of a grocery store. What seemed like a simple parenting tool to Solis ignited outrage across the internet. “I hope they leash her when she’s 50,” one angry commenter wrote. Others criticized the leash as “dumb,” and some simply stated, “I hate those.” Despite the backlash, the video continued to gain traction, amassing 12.9 million views.
For Solis, the leash is more than just a tool—it’s a matter of safety. As a mother, she explained that her primary concern is keeping her children safe, especially in busy public places where the risk of a child wandering off can lead to potentially dangerous situations, such as kidnapping or accidents.
Solis Defends Her Parenting Choice
In response to the criticism, Solis posted a follow-up video where she defended her decision to use the toddler leash. Drawing from her professional experience as a behavioral analysis therapist, Solis explained that the leash can be a lifesaver for certain children, particularly those who tend to run off or struggle with staying close in public spaces.
Solis highlighted her work with children who have autism, explaining that many of them exhibit a tendency to “elope” or wander away from caregivers, which can be a terrifying experience for both parents and children. In her view, the leash is a practical and effective solution for keeping her children safe and preventing them from getting lost or injured.
“I wish I had access to something like this when I was still practicing,” Solis said. “It would have made a big difference for so many parents who were worried about their kids running off.”
Solis also shared that her personal history played a role in her heightened awareness of child safety. As a survivor of childhood sexual assault, she explained that her experience has made her especially vigilant about her surroundings, and those protective instincts have only intensified since becoming a mother.
“I know what it’s like to feel vulnerable,” Solis said. “I refuse to take any chances when it comes to my children’s safety.”
Mixed Reactions from the Public
While many internet users were quick to criticize Solis for putting her daughter on a leash, others rallied to her defense. Several parents shared their own experiences and agreed that safety should always come first. Some even expressed admiration for Solis’ courage in using the leash despite the judgment she faced from strangers.
“I get it,” one parent commented. “I’ve used a leash on my kid before because they just won’t stay put, and it’s terrifying when they run off.”
Others pointed out that parenting is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and what works for one family may not work for another. As Solis emphasized in her video, every parent has different needs and experiences, and it’s important not to judge others without understanding their unique situations.
Still, not everyone was convinced. Several child psychology experts weighed in on the debate, offering alternative solutions for parents concerned about their children’s behavior in public.
Experts Weigh In on the Leash Debate
Dr. Jane Roberts, a child psychologist, acknowledged that some parents may feel overwhelmed by the challenge of keeping their children safe in crowded or unfamiliar environments. However, she also argued that there are other ways to address the issue without resorting to a leash.
“While a toddler leash may offer a quick fix, it’s important to consider long-term strategies for teaching children self-control and how to follow rules,” Dr. Roberts said. “Supervision and consistent guidance can be more effective tools in helping children understand boundaries in public spaces.”
Another expert, Dr. Sarah Patel, suggested that parents who are worried about their children running off might consider alternatives, such as using a stroller or a backpack harness, which still offers some control without the potential stigma associated with a leash. Dr. Patel also warned that the use of a leash could potentially harm a child’s self-esteem, especially if they are subjected to pulling or dragging in public.
“There’s a risk that children may feel embarrassed or even degraded by the leash,” Dr. Patel said. “It’s important to consider how these tools might impact a child’s emotional development.”
Despite these concerns, Solis remains firm in her belief that the toddler leash is an effective way to ensure her children’s safety in public spaces. She also pointed out that her daughters are comfortable with the leash and understand that it’s only used when they are outside the home.
A Mother’s Mission for Safety
Ultimately, Solis’ decision to use a leash is driven by her desire to protect her children from potential harm. Though her approach may not be universally accepted, she hopes that other parents will at least respect her choice and understand that every family faces different challenges.
“My husband was skeptical at first too,” Solis shared. “But after having kids, he realized how important it is, and now he doesn’t care about the stares in public. We know we’re doing what’s best for our family.”
As the debate around parenting styles continues to unfold online, Alexis Solis remains focused on her mission: ensuring her children’s safety, no matter what others may think.