When I’m out with my teenage son, there are times he needs to use the restroom. And, well, so do I. In his younger years, no one gave it a second thought when I brought him into the women’s restroom. He was just one of many young boys darting around with their mothers. Honestly, I never minded seeing boys in the women’s room. My priority was simply taking care of my own needs, not worrying about anyone else’s child.
However, as he’s grown up—how inconsiderate of him to start looking like a young adult!—the situation has changed. I find myself accompanied by a 5-foot-4 lanky teenager sporting hairy legs and a voice that’s dropping. Why does this matter? Because I can’t just send him into any restroom alone!
I’ve started planning errands to include places with single-stall restrooms where he can safely go in on his own. But it’s not just about him. I need to use the facilities too. The idea of rushing into separate restrooms, hoping to finish quickly enough to avoid leaving him alone, is stressful. And let’s face it: women’s restrooms typically have longer lines. Why is that? Oh right, because we often have kids with us!
So, understand that in certain public scenarios, my son will be joining me in the women’s restroom. If you’re part of the general public, you have two options: accept it or advocate for more family-friendly, gender-neutral restrooms. My son’s safety and comfort are just as important as anyone else’s needs.
It’s essential to note that my son has autism and an intellectual disability, which means I have to keep a close eye on him for his safety. If you’re worried about him seeing you not wash your hands, that’s on you.
Honestly, I dislike this situation too. He’s a teenager—he doesn’t want to walk into the bathroom with his mom. I can see the surprised looks from other women when he enters behind me. But rest assured, I’m teaching him to be respectful, including putting the seat down.
After all these years, I’m indifferent to the side-eye glances we might receive. If you have a problem with it, feel free to “take a picture; it’ll last longer.” But what do you want me to do? Stay home? Compromise his safety? Never use the restroom? No thank you; I’d rather not deal with a UTI, thank you very much.
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In summary, navigating public restrooms with a teenage son can be challenging, especially when considering safety and comfort. Until there are more inclusive facilities, I’ll continue taking him into the women’s restroom. It’s a necessary compromise for both our needs and safety.