Family Safety and Public Bathrooms: A Parent's Dilemma When Nature Calls

Moms with sons. Dads with daughters.

It is the same dilemma: When can they go in the adult public restrooms without me?

Will they be safe? These questions come up a lot—not surprisingly, mostly from moms who have young sons—and seem to really nag at parents when it comes to balancing safety for their kids when nature calls.

Many of us have experienced that moment when we are out at the mall or at another public venue and our child HAS TO GO RIGHT NOW. You make your way to the women's bathroom, when suddenly your son says "No way! I want to use the boys' bathroom." I have heard from moms who reluctantly allow the child to go use the men's room. I've also heard from moms who have said "No Way!—and then have had to drag their son into the women's restroom under total protest. I have also heard from parents who are appalled at other parents who drag significantly older children into the public restrooms with them, generally creating discomfort for all involved. 

My advice: Take a deep breath. Niney-nine percent of bathroom trips are safe. Be smart, observant and present (even if you are just standing outside waiting for them). Let your presence be known.

Public bathrooms can vary from appearing very safe to appearing very scary. Use your common sense. Let your child know he or she can holler for help. Make sure you use well-lit bathrooms in public areas. 

One great example is this new bathroom that was installed at recently. Gone are the long scary access hallways. Hello, centralized well-lit bathroom! A family bathroom would have even been better but this is a big step.

About the author: Redmond resident  is a child safety expert and the founder of Savvy Parents Safe Kids. Kim believes that every child deserves a safe childhood and that adults have the power to keep children safe.