Washing my clothing in a laundromat, I took my focus off my 3 year old for several minutes, during which time he was busy playing nearby in an area with video games. Within minutes, I heard horrible screaming, only to find him with his fingers stuck inside a door that had closed on his hand. I foolishly trusted that he’d be safe, for just those few minutes. I should have put him in the stroller and let him scream from frustration.
A friend of mine saw several young children sitting outside their house alone, without adult supervision. She approached the children and asked where their mommy was (inside, sleeping).
She called the mother out, and pointed out the dangers of leaving young children unattended.
Regarding the bathroom issue, I would take my boys with me regardless of how other women feel. Women’s rooms have closed stalls, so in my opinion, any shame others may feel is surmounted by my desire to keep my family safe.