Others shared their methods:
“Definitely the ladies room. You just announce yourself first, ‘girl dad coming in!'”
An overwhelming amount of TikTok users agreed with her sentiment and advised the same thing–that little girls are more than welcome in the women’s bathroom, but have the courtesy to announce yourself.
“I remember being a child and feeling really weird and awkward and uncomfy going in the men’s with my dad even if I knew I was safe.”
An Expert Weighs In
Parenting and youth development expert Dr. Deborah Gilboa weighed in, aligning with DJ Drewski’s stance. “If the men’s room is a little bit dirtier, so what? We don’t assume that little boys are in danger from coming in contact with men’s room germs,” she told TODAY.com. Gilboa emphasized that as long as the father is present and attentive, the child’s safety is not compromised.
However, Gilboa acknowledged scenarios where using the women’s restroom might be necessary, such as the absence of changing tables in men’s rooms. “Unless there’s a good reason to use the women’s room, stick to the men’s room,” she advised.
The discussion DJ Drewski and Colletti sparked highlights the broader societal considerations about restroom usage, gender norms, and the evolving role of fathers in caregiving. While there may not be a one-size-fits-all answer, the consensus among many is to prioritize the child’s comfort and safety, while being mindful of the environment and those around them.
Ultimately, the decision on which restroom to use will vary based on personal comfort levels, the specific circumstances, and the cultural context. The most important takeaway is ensuring that our daughters feel safe and cared for, no matter which door they walk through.
