March 23, 2023
A mother is shedding light on the realities of parenting toddlers, especially when it comes to those moments in public that invite judgment from others. If you’ve ever had a toddler, you know how chaotic and exhausting those outings can be. This is why a recent post by Jamie Collins, the voice behind the Facebook page Puzzle of Five, is a refreshing read for anyone who’s navigated similar experiences.
In her post, Jamie addresses those who might judge her for letting her young child go without shoes in a Target shopping cart. “Hello, I’m the mom you’re giving side-eyes to because my kid is barefoot,” she candidly states. Jamie acknowledges the concern from onlookers but wants to make it clear: “Save your judgment for something else.”
“I know his feet are bare,” she explains. “I recognize it might be a bit chilly outside (or even warm, and I still get those looks). Sure, his little toes might feel cold during our trek from the car to the store. But honestly, how dare I let him be comfortable?”
This reflection serves as a reminder to temper our judgments when we see parents with young children in public. If you don’t have kids, or it’s been ages since you’ve dealt with toddlers, it’s best to keep your unsolicited opinions to yourself.
Jamie continues, “In the midst of your criticism, I’m exhausted from picking up stray socks off the floor.” She shares that she’s tired of retracing her steps in the store looking for a missing shoe and dodging flying footwear while trying to shop. “I once tried to ensure he was fully dressed for our outings, but the socks often end up in my diaper bag after he takes them off. Frankly, I just gave up a long time ago.”
This sentiment resonates deeply. I, too, have lost a shoe and a beloved stuffed animal in the grocery store during a meltdown, and by the time we got home, I was just too tired to care.
Jamie mentions that her son has a strong aversion to anything touching his feet, a sentiment echoed by many parents. “Socks and shoes feel like prisons for little sweaty feet—who wants that?” she questions, making a valid point.
Next time you see a child wandering around without shoes in a public space, consider holding back on expressing your concerns. Many parents have things under control, even if it doesn’t look like it.
Jamie shared her message after being approached by a stranger in Target who was shocked that she didn’t mind her son being barefoot. “He sits in the cart, so why is it such a big deal?” she wondered. She wanted to remind other moms that they’re not alone in dealing with such situations. “Hey, fellow moms, I get it. Forget the shoes!”
While Jamie’s son has autism and his dislike for shoes is sensory-related, her message is universal for all mothers dealing with toddlers who refuse to wear shoes. “His feet may be bare, but he’s happy, and I’m managing to keep some of my sanity intact. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to grab some laundry soap and a hundred other things I don’t really need.”
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In summary, Jamie Collins’ heartfelt post reminds us that parenting is often messy and unpredictable, especially when it involves toddlers. It encourages empathy and understanding towards parents navigating their own unique challenges while parenting.