By: Mia Thompson
When I’m out with my son, there’s a good chance he’ll need to use the restroom. And often, I find myself in the same situation. In the past, no one blinked an eye when I brought my little guy into the women’s bathroom. After all, he was just one of many young boys accompanying their mothers, and frankly, my focus was on my own needs, not anyone else’s.
However, my son is growing up—how dare he! Gone are the days of his adorable romper and chunky toddler shoes, replaced by a lanky 13-year-old with a deeper voice and hairy legs trailing behind me into public restrooms. Why? Because there’s no way I would let him go in alone. I’ve even started planning my errands around places with single-stall restrooms to ensure his safety and my peace of mind.
Let’s face it: I also need to use the restroom. So, the idea of darting into separate facilities while hoping he finishes quickly is unrealistic—especially since women’s restrooms always seem to have the longer wait times. Seriously, ladies, what’s taking so long? Oh, right, it’s because we often have our kids in tow!
So, in many public places, my son will continue to accompany me into the women’s restroom. If you’re a member of the public, you have two options: either accept it, or advocate for more family-friendly and gender-neutral restrooms. After all, my son’s safety and my own needs are just as important as anyone else’s.
My son has autism and some intellectual disabilities, which is why I have to be a bit of a helicopter mom. I’m simply trying to keep him safe. If you’re worried about him witnessing someone not washing their hands, that’s on you.
Honestly, I dislike that I have to do this too. At his age, he doesn’t want to be seen with his mom in the bathroom. I can see the surprised looks from other women when he walks in with me, but I promise he knows to put the seat down afterward. I’m working hard to raise him right.
After all these years, I’ve stopped caring about the judgmental glances. If you want to stare, go ahead—I might even say, “Take a picture; it’ll last longer.” What’s the alternative? Never leave the house? Compromise his safety? Not to mention, I refuse to risk a UTI just to avoid a few side-eyes.
As mothers, we are a diverse group with our unique challenges, and it’s essential we have spaces to discuss all aspects of parenting. If you’re interested in more parenting topics, check out our other blog posts, including one on family planning at this site. For further insights on fertility journeys, this link is a great resource, and if you’re dealing with infertility, this page offers valuable support.
In summary, my teenager will continue to accompany me into the bathroom for his safety and mine. Until there are more gender-neutral restrooms, it’s simply a necessity.