Kourtney Kardashian Barker has responded to criticism after being called out for missing a key safety detail during a vacation with her son. The 46-year-old reality TV personality acknowledged a mistake she made while traveling.
The founder of Lemme posted on Instagram on Friday, August 8, sharing a photo of her son Rocky, whom she shares with her husband, Blink 182 drummer Travis Barker. In the debated image, Kourtney is seen embracing her nearly two-year-old son while on a boat. She uploaded numerous photos from their trip with the caption: “Food for the soul.”
However, numerous critics noted the absence of safety precautions for the toddler, criticizing the Keeping Up With the Kardashians star for seemingly neglecting to have a life vest for her son.
One comment read, “No life jacket??? And the Mother of the year award goes to…” Another critic questioned, “What no life vests? Isn’t that against the law…???”
“Child Endangerment per Idaho law,” a third comment stated. Observant fans also noted that a life jacket appeared to be available on the boat, situated next to Kourtney in the photo.
On Reddit, a user commented: “As cute as that first pic is, it drives me nuts. Kids on boats should always be wearing appropriate life vests and it looks like it’s sitting in the seat right next to them.”
Another user said, “Unless his life jacket covered his mouth, there’s no reason he’d have to remove HIS life jacket to have his little boat snack.”
A third commenter added: “She actually seems to care about her kids, I’m betting she won’t make that mistake again.”
In response, Kourtney addressed the critique through her Instagram story, indicating she’s taken the feedback seriously and has taken steps to rectify the situation. She wrote, “Update: bought a life vest that fits!” accompanying a screenshot of her recent purchase.
She acknowledged the oversight, writing, “Good looking out. Honestly didn’t think about some of the dangers,” and expressed gratitude to her followers for bringing the issue to her attention. “Thank you for making me aware and hopefully this helps make other mommies aware of the dangers of certain types of boating without a life vest,” she concluded.
Following her acknowledgment, many have retracted their comments and commended her for accepting the mistake. One fan commented, “Her response was refreshingly honest. She thanked the critic for calling her out, took responsibility, bought him a vest, and did a call out to other moms. Never too late to learn. She wasn’t defensive at all. She loves being a Mom and loves her children!”
Kourtney and Travis welcomed Rocky in November 2023, conceived naturally after five unsuccessful cycles of IVF. She also has three children with her former partner, Scott Disick: sons Mason, 15, Reign, 10, and their 13-year-old daughter, Penelope.