Vancouver dad on raising 5 free-range kids in city apartment

Adrian Crook lives with his five kids in a condo in downtown Vancouver. When he separated from his wife, he left the suburbs - bucking the pressure in North America that kids need a house and a backyard - and rented a 29th-floor penthouse in the very dense Yaletown district.
To maximize the two bedroom space, Crook uses transforming furniture. A murphy bed slash desk turns his bedroom into a home office (he’s a videogame designer). The bottom half of his girls’ bunk bed transforms into a table and desk. A carpenter friend turned two IKEA bunk beds into a triple bunk for his three boys.
Crook grew up in the suburbs, but became hooked on the vibrancy of city living as an adult. He gave up his car and he and the kids rely on bikes, public transit and their feet. Crook estimates they walk about 10 kilometers per day just going to and from school and activities.
He taught his kids to ride the bus alone, but - despite praise from fellow riders (one wrote Crook "praising the kids’ skills and behaviour")- after an anonymous complaint from a concerned citizen, the British Columbia government weighed in and determined that kids under 10 can’t be alone (neither on the bus nor at home). Some Canadian media are calling it a debate between “helicopter” and “free-range” parenting or a battle against the “nanny state”. Crook has launched a legal battle. Crook is also running for city council and has founded two non-profits to advocate for both better transit and more housing choices (denser zoning options in Metro Vancouver).
5 kids, 1 condo blog: 5kids1condo.com
Abundant Housing Vancouver www.abundanthousingvancouver.com/
Abundant Transit BC www.abundanttransit.org/
Crook’s run for city council www.voteadriancrook.com/

[@g.f.3690]

In Germany and most European countries it is so normal, that elemantary school kids go to school by their own. Most of them walk, but some also take buses or metro. It's their parents' job to train them and make sure they can cope. At parents' evening at school the teacher will advise you to allow your kid to go alone. They don't want you to drive your kid. It's considered important for child development. At the end of kindergarten my kids- they are 12 and 15years old now- had lessons by a local police officer. They practiced how to behave in traffic as a pedestrian. In the end they took an examination (hat to cross some streets and so) and received a fun "pedestrian license". We parents were told to go on an practice more with our children so they can walk safely to school.

[@laurakearney3217]

G. F. I

[@miischax]

I agree. I actually had to walk to school by myself when I was 6 years old when I lived in Hamburg, Germany. A lot of my friends that time even came by bus (keep in mind Hamburg is a big city). We also had that pedestrian license (that was about 20 years ago though) and even a bike license when we biked with two police officers. Got an official sticker on our bike after lol I’m currently living in the Netherlands and it seems to be similiar to Germany concerning how kids get to school; even though they mostly bike here.

[@sherryqiu9831]

Same in most eastern asian countries, except for families that live too far away from school.

[@Idellle]

True. In the 90's I walked to school and back home from I was 9. Most of my classmates lived near the school but a few took the bus by their own.

[@xario1126]

North America is much bigger to be honest.

[@SpaceFlye]

Saw "free-range" in the title and legit just assumed it was chickens.

[@nefairustuxtorials458]

same the title was cut off at free range and i legit thought he had like 5 apartment chickens lol

[@nonenone3499]

SpaceFlye LoL. I know, right.

[@antayat123]

I thought goats.

[@theSammyM333]

Yeah this guy looks like a cannibal. Must have cooking station in basement.

[@rachelemarie741]

Me too! Never heard of free range kids. 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@astheyroamnz]

What stood out for me was the way in which he interacted with his children. He listened and replied to them with the same respect he would any other adult. He's nurturing and supporting them in a way that will stand them in good stead for the future.

[@LordWhatsHisName]

You baby your kids too long they grow up shy or snobby. Let them make mistakes and solve most of their own problems so they can operate in today's world.

[@Made2be]

Nice that you recognized that. I've raised my daughter the same way because I've seen the struggles with treating them like children or lesser than

[@TrueCrimeChronicles9]

Or he could be putting on a front for the camera...dun dun dun

[@1xkoko]

Judas Iscariot Judas Iscariot his kids didn’t misbehave cuss scream any of that so how’d you get all these assumptions from this video ? He literally said he taught them to take the bus alone so they could learn to do things on their own he’s trying his best raising 5 kids

[@jenniferstuart1473]

If anything else that is important 🙂❤✌

[@jo444]

I'm seriously drooling over all that natural light and those beautiful windows! He also seems like a really wonderful dad.

[@LouisPaquette]

nice view, eh?

[@brianburke886]

Agreed its a fantastic apartment

[@TheBinoyVudi]

you should find him and date him ! he is single.

[@stopbeinginsecure4786]

Binoy Vudi ship the kids away then we’ll talk

[@Miquelalalaa]

J C Why tf does he even live there?

[@mikaylawilliams2367]

Hes a minimalist, eco friendly, efficient, yet still very modern and in tune with reality I think. I dig it.

[@pw1277]

Mikayla Williams I dont think liveing in a city is eco friendly, like...

[@mikaylawilliams2367]

@@pw1277 ok. What's your supporting evidence? My thinking is it takes up less land which sustains the environment better. Smaller space = smaller carbon footprint. But I'm totally open to other interpretations.

[@deagaric4765]

@@pw1277 living in sprawling suburbs is actually destroying the environment. Takes up a lot of land (that could otherwise be a park) and encourages people to commute to work, school, events, since everything is further away.

[@mikaylawilliams2367]

@@deagaric4765 and building out instead of up isnt destroying the earth? Heres another point. If you cant afford to go build yourself a permaculture what would you suggest people do instead? Do people need huge homes in order to save land? That seems a tad contradicting to me.

[@mikaylawilliams2367]

And just because something is a park doesnt mean it helps the environment. They still bulldoze the ground and kill and or drive off the natove animal species to make parks for people. No fruit is grown. Nothing contributing to the environment comes from most parks.

[@TheClownNHLps3Trades]

All their downstairs neighbours disliked this video

[@sarahtonen4873]

Christopherymush hehe he

[@dirtysaint5324]

I think they are for the term "free-range kids"

[@notsure6187]

he's lucky he doesn't have any upstairs neighbors.

[@FurnitureFan]

@@notsure6187 I believe that's why he rents a penthouse.

[@PageShearling]

🤣

[@NotYourMommasHistory]

He’s very hands on. He is a great father. This is a horrible title. These kids are going to be healthy well adjusted adults.

[@fizzyhog]

NotYourMommasHistory What’s wring with the title? It doesn’t say anything negative about him!

[@slaughtergang518]

lol 😅

[@stephanyhdz92]

NotYourMommasHistory yesss

[@brendajameson5093]

He can afford to have free-range kids. He has 4 backup kids.

[@lone6718]

NotYourMommasHistory unfortunately this type of parenting is called free-range parenting. Not that I have ever heard anyone refer to themselves as such. Hell it was just called parenting when I was a kid. 🤷‍♀️🤦‍♀️

[@elenavines7861]

Best dad ever !! No one remembers the size of their bedroom everyone remembers how AWESOME their dad is!!

[@camogrrl]

Elena Vines he’s not the best dad ever. He feeds them chicken nuggets. You know what’s in those things? And his kids have stupid designer names

[@maggiek1714]

Mel Campbell are you big mad or little mad?

[@ThereseDavidson]

Very true

[@walter3433]

Everyone huh? Tell that to the kids getting beat to a pulp by their dad, naive twat

[@tinipants2]

I grew up rich i remember my dallas shaped house growing up

[@saralenak2487]

Wow... 5 kids being a single dad. And yet look how clean and organized the space is. Respect to the dad, keep pushing through✊

[@TheLoverHearts]

Saralena Winters ha has them on the weekend and the mother during the week

[@NexusFantismo]

@@TheLoverHearts and? Does that make his efforts any less remarkable?

[@WatchHeadsRoll]

@@NexusFantismo Yes.

[@brandinlea7137]

@@WatchHeadsRollsomeone has to work during the week.

[@jesse85]

Calley Rose actually watch the video, he has them half the time. One week with him, one with the mom.

[@TotalGirl97rox]

my only complaint is that you need more socks

[@nitinjaswal946]

H h h ha haha ha true

[@jenniferstuart1473]

Truth......

[@MeAndThemThemAndMe]

🤣🤣

[@jennifergreco1403]

😋😀

[@marvelgurlneshe6745]

So true cus the dryer eats socks 😩🤣

[@monkeynumbernine]

Here's a guy raising his kids to be self sufficient, and he is giving them a wonderful home.. and of course someone has to complain about what he is doing 😒

[@thegit8698]

monkeynumber nine it makes you sick doesn't it

[@monkeynumbernine]

Jas Ward yes it does

[@condew6103]

I wonder if that anonymous complainer would be making trouble if it was the kid's mother living in exactly the same way. There are a whole lot of feminists who, when they see a father with his children, assume it's wrong and ask the police to look into it. We've really got to stop taking anonymous complaints seriously; if the complainer won't even attach their own name to their complaint, why should anybody take them seriously?

[@waarce]

I am of the school that children shouldn’t be allowed to take public transit by themselves. People think that children are adults and they are not, they are children and as such, they should be supervised appropriately. Children’s judgements, at an early age, is impaired.

[@krollpeter]

I raised my son while my wife is working and earn our bread. You guys have not the slightest idea what we both had to hear from women. Waiting 2 minutes at the red light with my 3 yo old son at the hand for green in the sun: "Where is his mum? The poor boy." At subway he could not decide which sandwich. Starts to cry, no other reason than that. May be a bit tired since it was evening. "You should not be allowed to have children". Later I have learned to ignore it but several of such memories came back while watching this.

[@ashbash0097]

That's crazy. Here in Japan elementary students commute by themselves to school and back everyday. They use buses and trains and nobody blinks an eye. It's great for kids to be independent.

[@FurnitureFan]

@@deriot3397 Sounds credible - so you are planning to move to Japan before you start a family?

[@cheddarcheese2884]

I hope I can move to japan lmao

[@rafaelroma1657]

Here in Brazil even adults are afraid to commute. I grew up going to school alone but today this is something unviable due to violence and insecurity in our cities. Our daughter is just too important for us to take the risk.

[@ZalthorAndNoggin]

I totally agree. Too much is done for children these days and depression is rife as a result. Like adults, kids need space to develop properly.

[@o08O80o]

fアシュリー It’s the same in Sweden

[@adamnowek]

Breaking: man lives completely normal life in a city. More at 11.

[@EugeneAyindolmah]

not normal in the US

[@jennifergreco1403]

😀😄

[@ella-bt8hp]

Haha yeah lol

[@baker6682]

A split home is not normal at all

[@inflixo36]

Based Culture I share a room with 2 brothers

[@john3Lee]

These kids are going to grow into fine adults..... Lovely to see..

[@davrocket5304]

yeah away from druggies

[@X3000Chan]

Davius Lepremier Suburban kids far from the inner city definitely get into as much trouble with drugs, and other things they shouldn't get into as children and teens, just as much, if not much much more than city kids. Don't be so ignorant or blinded by the propaganda (since the 1950's at least) of the "safety" and "wholesomeness" of developments and suburbia. It's insanely hard to walk to things and get easy exercise besides walking around the block or spending money at a gym in suburbia. You have to drive far usually, to get to restaurants, museums, concerts, and other cultural events. Cities are comprised usually of a multitude of ethnicities, cultures, ages, and economic backgrounds. Interacting with a myriad of people teaches kids to be understanding and cultured human beings. I'd love to raise my kids in major city or on the outskirts for sure.

[@robingagan6288]

Disrespectful, bold

[@TheColeTruth]

i so agree...the trappings of suburbia force you to go within or escape by any means necessary. I chose video games and music but many of my peers got into drugs.

[@piteusx8440]

The kids seem happy to me. Who the heck filed a complaint? The father is doing everything to spend time with them. Lord knows he has no privacy to do anything else.

[@misstea-uu3nj]

His children live with their mother in a house in the suburbs. They have a backyard etc. He has his children on the weekends. I heard him interviewed on the radio explaining his situation.

[@Itsme_1648]

miss tea2000 That makes sense!

[@princetubby5698]

no he said it during the bus scene@@Alyssa-cb7zj

[@jaydewollangur3167]

He said in the video that it’s 50/50

[@havfaith56]

That changes everything.

[@ericmiller254]

lol free range in the city, i bet she loves that hahaha I'd be most worried about one of them throwing another out the window on accident than anything

[@rebeccadrew9969]

Dad - 'they don't match but they will be ok'. I swear most dads say this . 😂

[@johnlozauskas778]

No need to swear but GUILTY!!

[@clairemack2750]

I'm a mom and I say this, lol. In fact, with my oldest, I purposefully bought a brand that sold mismatched socks - they all used the same colors, but were all different, wild patterns.

[@raea3588]

The only trick I've found for socks with everyone in the family is to either buy them pre-mismatched or buy a whole lot just in white! Keep extra in a separate drawer Lol No more spending an hour matching socks on laundry day :)

[@Bummer1980]

He’s doing an amazing job as a father! Listening, fostering creative thinking, preparing them for REAL LIFE experiences, problem solving, seeing the world for what it is and what it could be. Good on him!! 💗

[@thespongepuppy]

there's kids out there who don't eat, live in dirty houses, don't have any clean clothes at all,....and we're worried about THIS GUY?? These kids are lucky to have a dad like him.

[@lillyc.1194]

Exactly!

[@ImJusM3eh]

I died 🤣 “those are the shoes he stole from day care!” And his son replied “I didn’t stole them. I borrowed them” hahaha

[@elielelwy]

Such a cool guy. I love how he’s teaching his kids to be more dimensional in how they think, act and live! These kids are growing up to be well-rounded because their dad is, that’s an amazing thing to show younger children. There are so many complaints against the way he’s going about parenting when he’s doing everything right. He’s teaching his kids to be self-sufficient, independent and adapting, all whilst genuinely being kind and respectful to his children. I’m really inspired by him.

[@leylarose6599]

praising men for minimal effort in parenting LOL the usual. Our society is brainwashed + sexist.

[@OHlookSHINYthing]

@@leylarose6599 your comment is confusing. What's sexist about praising a good dad?

[@leylarose6599]

@@OHlookSHINYthing lol he's doing minimal effort. Moms go above and beyond and dads are praised for doing the basics. It's sad imo.

[@teopizzuti8098]

@@leylarose6599 assuming their mom goes above and beyond is sexist too. Your comment isn’t that convincing when your a hypocrite.

[@leylarose6599]

@@teopizzuti8098 moms do go above and beyond . We live in a sexist society lol a man made by men for men .

[@thisistotallyfine]

Living in HK, that's considered a sick ass apartment. Look at the big windows with such nice lighting.

[@Willaren]

The socks....always a problem regardless of family

[@midiarennie6373]

Willaren odd i never have had a problem with that... i think its organizational skills.. dirty bin..wash.. fold(together) ... put in drawers... put out out fit for next day the night before!... never had a sock causality🤣🤣😁

[@ems8717]

Willaren I was always mad ad my mom for loosing my socks. Living along made me understand they just dissappear on their own 😂

[@AhhhSukeSuke]

easy solution, put all socks in a zippable laundry bag! you won't lose a sock ever again!!

[@beckykent435]

Willaren I just hate washing and pairing them back up

[@simsisthebest66]

LMAOOOO

[@carmenpowell1436]

This kid did more pull ups in three seconds than I've done in my entire life...

[@Nancy_Amy]

Ditto 😄

[@dedraallen840]

He could have some snazzy bachelor pad, but instead the whole space seems to be about his kids. Love that 👏

[@madlove4603]

Why should he be applauded for taking care of his 5 kids?? The mothers are often the assumed full time parent with no fan fare. I don’t understand how you think he could have a “snazzy bachelor pad” as a father of 5??

[@ilangilang7185]

@@madlove4603 calm your tits. Be a little more positive and supportive to others. Maybe one day you'll feel better.

[@CommanderRick]

@@madlove4603 typical feminist logic

[@boofert.washington2499]

@@madlove4603 how many husbands have you had? I'm guessing more than 1.

[@boofert.washington2499]

@@madlove4603 you can choose to have them or not. So, you SHOULD have the most responsibility. Women are supposed to raise the kids. That's nature. The man is supposed to feed and shelter.

[@Sylwia1145]

Im sad that the father feels like he has to explain himself. He is doing a grate job and the kids are loved and happy. They have more than enaught. ( To me personally the apartment seems wery luxurious, it's just perfect :-))

[@sirehan1002]

you should meet him and get married

[@schewitt1977]

Sylwia1145 its society! But he is totally right. Good for him.

[@aeonm9857]

It's a documentary.... Of course he's "explaining himself"

[@eddenoy321]

I do feel for him when he said that he was a renter, because the owners will soon either raise his rent, sell, or finagle another way to push them out of they central city.Nice apartment if it was 2 or 3. I am sure this guy qualifies for a lot of single parent benefits and he is lucky that he is living in Canada where the state can support their health and well-being. The rent is low and I have to wonder if the government is paying a share of the market rate. It works to his advantage to be a single parent in Canada.There are good safety nets.

[@Maraaha55]

I like this guy and the way he is with his kids and the values he's following. Good for him

[@thelazyist9107]

Margret Christie its cuz he has no wife.

[@Maraaha55]

he has a wife, the kids spend half their time with her. Just cos she's an ex doesn't mean she doesn't exist. I know, and know of gazillions of men who have no interest in and no contact with their children. Wife, no wife, nothing to do with it. And if you mean that BECAUSE he currently has no wife, he has the FREEDOM to parent the kids as he wants, but I don't think it would make any difference to this guy either way. 'Cos he's a Man, with the right priorities. I think At least I agree with them, which of course is all that matters ;-)

[@jasonb3907]

He wins 'Dad of the Year' award in my opinion

[@austinrichards871]

I like how he works with what he has hes pretty grateful

[@klaudianapieraa4924]

I don’t get the part when he says that people are forced to live in ‘this sort of space’ but for him it is a choice. This is a luxurious penthouse city pad with 3 bedrooms and breathtaking views. It is massive and many parents cannot give their kids this sort of luxury. Also, respect that he can afford this sort of apartment, providing for 5 kids and still has time to spend with them.

[@anthonyjaurrieta]

Right. This pad is a steal for 1800$ . The views alone are worth it. These kids are living in a fucking condo!! I like that he doesn't coddle these kids to much.

[@maryvonneadams9378]

He has respect for them and they have respect for him.

[@peter_smyth]

I think he means some people are forced into living in a place that size. I don't think he was referring to the price or luxury of that apartment.

[@johnacosta8529]

His job. Family. Where he calls home.

[@HelloMsAnny]

On one hand I agree, this is obviously a luxurious flat, but I think he was thinking more about the size of it. Living with 5 kids in a 3 bedroom flat isn't considered particularly common and there are plenty of people who do that out of force. He can afford a more fancy one so why wouldn't he get it, but I do think he was referring to the space they have.

[@SJwasMADEin1987]

I'm not a city person however you really sold that beautiful place to me

[@tinderinc]

It will be $1 million....

[@Jaysaflame]

he not paying $2300 in a million dollar home....

[@Jaysaflame]

well not to bad if your paying $2300 for a home at 1 million when in US it would be that for a 400k house.

[@runningfromabear8354]

ArmchairWarrior - people that own houses in North Shore aren't all rich. My great aunt arrived post-WW2 on her own when she was 18 years old. She worked for a few years, got married, continued working with kids and still lives in the 2 bedroom bungalow they moved into in the early 50's. She's definitely not rich and neither are her kids. My Grandmother has said how crazy they thought she was leaving Europe for Vancouver, by herself, and she didn't know anyone in Vancouver when she left. She saw pictures of it and thought it was pretty. I'd say she was pretty brave.

[@Iburn247]

Yeah that view is amazinf

[@kimsmith6656]

Here to show my support for your upcoming trial Adrian! Good luck sir!

[@mintyqueen7696]

I love his parenting style and the way he’s so understanding and patient with his children. The condo is actually not bad for the price when you take in account of the view and such. ❤️❤️

[@dannyzuehlsdorf3697]

Kids can do a lot more than we give them credit for. This guy is letting them learn this in a healthy, positive way. Cool video

[@lealee-healthyteame184]

If this family lived in Japan or say Hong Kong this is how they would live and nobody would think it was weird.

[@eBenkyou]

True, the only difference is that Japan is way more affordable than Vancouver. I grew up in Van and now live in Japan. Van is a rip off city that uses propaganda to justify itself.

[@zinniamadame8398]

Not just Japan and Hong Kong. Most parts of the world are like that

[@nneizmen]

or anywhere else (russia, europe etc)

[@finleythegolden2909]

Lea Lee - healthyteame I mean sorta? I lived in Osaka and Tokyo and I had an apartment in Osaka but in Tokyo we had a house, it was thin but tall. No yard but it was a house. And it probably costs less than his condo.

[@Living4YHWH]

I live in the US and am still at a loss for what is supposedly weird about it.

[@sienaclarke4456]

I’m from NYC and i grew up in the same type of environment. I walked home from school when i was 9. This is not a big deal at all lol

[@PhantomTiger1396]

NYC seems like a cool place to live, I visited there for my senior trip in highschool

[@raea3588]

I think it's wonderful! Amazing and healthy lifestyle, loving dad and very blessed sweet children :)

[@joannehaywood4708]

Such a breath of fresh air to see another parent teaching there kids a free range way..l raised my three as a single mom from toddler to teens, on a very low budget, no car, no luxurious and the worst penalty.. Social Judgment!.. because l didn't fit into the 'normal' stencil..we use to play manopololy, play dough, baking, candlelight story time..many times we walked in the rain as our nieghbours drive by in luxury cars..I taught my kids how to be positive and pull together as brothers and sisters because sometimes life gets rough and if you have each other...it ain't so bad. My kids are now 16,17 and 18..and have life skills way beyond there friends who mocked but can't even wash up a cup.. Luxury are treats, earned.

[@iamaswift234]

Joanne Haywood do you really think that teens can’t watch cups?

[@joannehaywood4708]

@@iamaswift234 l am sure most teenagers are very capable of washing up cups

[@HandleThiSS88]

Hmm but your spelling is atrocious. I hope your kids went to school at least.

[@lillym5908]

Joanne Haywood I hope they'll at least get GED's so they can get jobs..

[@anthonyjaurrieta]

Respect. My ex girlfriend sorta taught her kid to do the same. Make most of the situation. You are more than what your situation.

[@GraciaInspired]

I was planning on only watchinh a few minutes of this but i couldn't click away. #1 I love Vancouver, it's my favourite Canadian city. #2 I love love LOVE humans who challenge the status quo. #3 what an amazing dad

[@etho55]

Thank you! So kind!

[@wolfsbane1991]

Challenge the status quo? This is normal in all of Europe and some Asian countries. It's just not normal to you americans because you infantilize your children.

[@GraciaInspired]

ParadiseLost I was born in Africa and lived in Europe when I was a kid so im fully aware of the fact that people bring their children up differently in other parts of the world. I'm Canadian now and so is he, and based on Canadian standards he is 100% challenging the status quo.

[@andiecervantes59]

Literally me, his voice is so soothing and calm. I usually don’t watch more than 3-4 minutes, but I have a minute left lol.

[@JT4GM4K3R]

They have tinnitus from when he lifted them up by the ears in the elevator.

[@vanhughes]

The space is sufficient. Mostly organized. And quite spacious due to the living area. Great job. Whoever made the complaint has a problem with attempting to control others. Allow everyone to instill their values in their children. Jeez.

[@angelaswanson39]

I love that as organized they are, they still can't find socks! Yes!!! I feel your pain.

[@mindrelaxingtales756]

One day these kids going to be more responsible like their father such a great father 😍😍😘😘

[@WaskiSquirrel]

As a kid, I hated growing up in the suburbs. You couldn't go anywhere without a car so a kid is stuck. In the country there is at least nature to explore (I lived that lifestyle as teenager) but you're often far from other things.I like my life now where everything is in walking distance. In fact, the car recently got its first refill of gas since December 24: almost 4 months on one tank. I think he has made the right choice for him and his kids. As they become teenagers, he may want to find a place with a little more privacy. But you don't need a big home. I especially love his multi-purpose use of bedrooms. But I think the biggest one is that the kids are learning to take care of themselves. In North America, we infantilize our children far too much.

[@BenjiSun]

i have the opposite feel living in the 'burbs in Vancouver back in the 80's. it was 5 minutes bike to school, and at least 10 classmates who's houses are also within 5-10 minutes by bike away where it's like everyone's at someone else's house or hosting friends at their own house every day. there's a great jungle gym next to the school and a huge park with these gigantic tree stumps and tall swings on the next street. and a market street with lots of little restaurants and cafes is about 10-12 minutes by bike in another direction. it's a small house with small rooms but it was a wonderful warm neighbourhood (i hear it still is). we could go out by car, but it's also not difficult to go around by bus either. most of the time when i'm not with friends, running around in the back yard and at the park is enough, since both my parents had to work. kids are tough, they can make do with as much or as little. that guy made different choice, which works for him. that part of downtown(called Yaletown) is quite different now than what it was back in the 80's when it was mostly rundown or abandoned warehouses and in the 90's when it was turned into hipster bars. it's still filled with hipsters now but today's hipsters actually artisans who know their shit instead of the 90's breed of vacuous manplainin' drunks in horn rimmed glasses. (sometime in the 90's i used to live in an apt not far from this guy's building, before it was built, and back then the next street over was a lot of streetwalkers at night. it's been sterilized since then).

[@WaskiSquirrel]

That kind of historical perspective is important. There are times and places for different things. I've read several studies about how much more opportunity there is in an area with population density. But, these can also be horrible places. And places change a lot over time. I live in a small town right now that is (mostly) walkable. I can do my daily commute and most of my shopping on foot or bicycle. I think a big part of it is how the suburb is set up. They can be quite good. I wouldn't want to live in an apartment because I have a large garden. And the lots here in town are small: not your typical giant suburban lot. I also live in an elderly 1-bedroom house that is smaller than the classroom I teach in...even when the basement is set beside it. So, I am in a bit of a unique situation. People ask me how I got such a large lot...and I have to point out it's a standard lot with far less house on it.

[@sfylam88]

He’s a good dad teaching his children on what the city has to offer. I grew up in Chinatown and we did not own a car. Remembered when my sisters & I used to walk from Chinatown to Stanley Park and back every time it was a sunny summery day. Walked all through elementary and beginning of high school. After that it was transit by ourselves.

[@j.h.5617]

WaskiSquirrel j

[@jewbacca8183]

WaskiSquirrel where I live they have an excellent public transportation system. My mom allowed my to take the bus anywhere

[@Roxy-33]

I have seen them several times on the bus. Finally I know someone on youtube🤣🤣🤣

[@LucifersDeathSquad]

I have seen you several times on the bus also. I havent had the courage to say anything yet but someday I will. I have followed you home many times but never enough courage to knock. I have rummaged through your bin but never found anything sniff worthy.

[@lineavictoria2631]

LucifersDeathSquad what the hell is wrong with you?

[@LucifersDeathSquad]

@@lineavictoria2631 - Don't worry , you're on my list also.....

[@ckpizzle]

@@LucifersDeathSquad reported

[@LucifersDeathSquad]

@@ckpizzle - Don't get jealous. You can be on the list also If it upsets you.

[@fuzz7981]

He's really engaged with his kids, clearly love's them more than anything. Everything else is irrelevant.

[@samanthapeters2972]

This video should be titled "how a single dad, and his five kids live in a condo."

[@SunFlowur]

lmao couldnt agree more!

[@deerheart87]

Samantha Peters it's a nice apartment

[@jennifercate8996]

Yea it isn't as if they're living in squalor by ANY MEANS haha. I don't really get this. Except for the fact that he's teaching them a LOT of stuff. And using a room for more than one thing. I would be afraid to let my children go on transit alone though, tbh.

[@jvertrees1988]

Don’t forget the rats!

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

How a noncustodial parent keeps his 5 kids on his visit times. Thankfully, its not all week theyre cooped up without outside access, in N out at will. I hate just having to go into the hallway, walk down some stairs and deal with a security exterior door. We have large green spaces, playground, pool, tennis courts too. But our own space to be able to have a balcony, patio, deck, garden n have some hens n goats, A GARAGE for outside toys, etc, is much preferred.

[@kaylabryson1932]

I think part of the reason this works so well is the kids aren't there full time. Dad gets a nice break half the week. Also, working from home and money to eat out ... That's ideal.

[@kami9407]

No this actually works fine in other countries. I'm living in Singapore this is a normal lifestyle even if it was full time it would still be functional.

[@princetubby5698]

worked fine for me growing up in london and all my friends

[@sofiaglove]

Crusty Bunny, what he meant was mental and personal space break from continuously taking care of 5 kids and its not a bad thing at all. Everyone needs a break and half a week is just nice.

[@kami9407]

@@sofiaglove Okay but this is still a VERY functional lifestyle as most people in the world live like this. So to say it works so well because the dad gets a break is not true it would still work well if the father had them full time. Once again the majority of the world lives like this its just seen as strange in North America where there are suburbs.

[@kami9407]

So to make a snobby comment like oh this is only working cause he has the kids half time is small minded and inaccurate. No this is how most of the freaking world lives and sure a break is nice but it's not needed this is a totally normal lifestyle its just different to yours.

[@superfightbros.2692]

I really like this guy's attitude towards life!

[@OMGIGILY]

I love minimalism and getting full use out of every inch. this is incredible

[@scdobserver835]

Single parent with 5 YOUNG children? He's a unicorn. No wonder he needs to make them 'free range'!

[@TheGranti7a]

SCD Observer Part-time, single parent. An important distinction. He does say, the children are with him half the time, and with their mom the other half. These kids are having a multicultural life. Mom and Dad are raising the kids differently.

[@Litcott]

Haha, right? I grew up with five siblings, parents divorced, and us being free range was more a survival necessity than a lifestyle choice. But in the end it was for the best. My friends who had helicopter parents are neurotic.

[@sagiliciouslooshish4991]

Queen JKInc. Good for you :) May I ask...How do you make income ?

[@ah5721]

I was free range by accident. I am more responsible and more aware of my surroundings and can find my way home better than most people my age. It's easier to live like this when you have public transit. In the 90's whole packs of kids used to roam the neighborhood. Now I go to the park when it's supposed to busiest and it's pretty empty. My kid doesn't have friends because there is no one outside playing. I worry that my son will not get the same interaction and human connection we used to have as a society.

[@wilzze]

SCD Observer o

[@poodlebone]

I grew up in NYC the youngest of 6 children (2 boys, 4 girls). We lived in a 2 bedroom apartment. The girls had the larger bedroom, the boys had the smaller room and my parents slept in the living room. My father left when I was very young and at some point my mother turned the tiny dining area off the kitchen into a room and put a wall up in the girls room to split it in 2, to give the two older girls a little more privacy. From the time I was very small I was riding the elevator in my building to visit friends, going outside and up & down the block to see friends. Many of my friends were living in the same situations. Nobody thought it was weird. By second grade I was walking 5-6 blocks, crossing a bust street, to go visit a friend from school. Whenever I watch those HGTV shows where people are looking for a house and need a room for every kid, a guest room, an office, a playroom, a media room etc I can't believe it.

[@etho55]

I watch those same shows and it's crazy making!

[@shaniajackson4051]

poodlebone nice story 😊

[@sunnysu4965]

City kids are cool kids. I am born and raised in the second biggest city in Germany. It's normal to us that a 7 year old kid go on their own to school. I took the subway on my own to visit my grandma when I was 9. I was very independent and reliable.

[@Ronkyort0dox]

easier to kidnap

[@madelinclaireg4446]

Their apartment is extremely beautiful. The aesthetic of it is gorgeous. The view of amazing. The family is so cute. Love love love ❤️❤️❤️

[@itsmephil]

This Dad is so cool. He has an amazing attitude & obviously loves his kids. He seems so unfazed by the shared-responsibility of raising a large family, and in the city at that. Thx for posting this wonderful story.

[@Benjaminaq16]

I want an update in ten years

[@hyacinthdibley2420]

12:03 *he shares his kids 50-50 with their mum.* This is for all of you guys who refused to watch the entire video, but commented anyway about him "pretending* to have the kids 100 percent of the time.

[@ADreamingTraveler]

Yep...people automatically believe what a random person in the comments says. This is why fake info passes around so easily and people have these absurd beliefs about specific types of people. Because people don't watch things or get facts and think critically about things.

[@brandinlea7137]

So now this has detracted him being an exceptional father? Thanks Karen, we all see right through you. Hope you work out your issues. Did your child support check not show up?

[@HandleThiSS88]

"We're friends with the downstairs neighbors..." They'll beg to differ, I'm sure.

[@patti5816]

Can't understand why luxury high-rise can't be built to eliminate sound transfer.

[@benyihu6979]

​@@patti5816 cause it will take more vertical space and space cost money

[@melissashiels7838]

I bet they are intimately familiar with his visitation schedule - "Oh, the 5 noisy hellians are over; guess it's just all noise, all the time this weekend ".

[@chloecallis2056]

I don't know why this was so calming

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

It wasn't. I can feel the stress and tension of 6 people crammed into a 2 bdrm condo through my computer screen.

[@kimlarge4077]

That dad has got it together. He comes across very calm and loving to his children. I hear him encouraging them throughout the whole video.

[@bambi7563]

OMGWTFLOL it's a three bedroom condo..

[@BlueButterfly7777]

I wish I felt it calming. I'm kind of worried about the older daughter's cartwheels and all that glass.

[@BlueButterfly7777]

@@bambi7563Technically two bedrooms. He sleeps in the den.

[@FalloutConspiracy]

Considering the views he has and the location, $2300.00 per month is a steal.

[@kathleenbratti9258]

No kidding. It would cost that in a more reasonably priced market, but in Vancouver that is insanely cheap.

[@kkmeowy]

Yea!

[@anthonyjaurrieta]

@Paloma Tatiana that's dank with all the windows

[@ForRealSwagmaster]

That's $2300 Canadian as well, which is $1722 USD... wow

[@TheNationalfilmbored]

I suspect this is in a coop. I can't see how else he could get that apartment for that price, unless he's getting a special deal for some reason. (Source: I used to live in Vancouver.)

[@joinveronica5041]

Hey Adrian, your kids are independent and amazing! I enjoyed watching your parenting style. I was allowed to ride on public transport as a young child on my own, and growing into my teens, I didn't always need dad to drive me around, preferred going to places on my own or friends - I support your decision to let your kids do this. Cheers from Down Under!!

[@sleepybear1065]

He seems like great father and he seems to have a lot of creative ways to use his space. We live in an apartment too, 11th floor in the city of Antwerp. We used to live in the suburbs but transport was terrible and the prices were just way too high for us. I talked to someone before our big move because we weren't sure about not having a big yard and the big open space but i'll never forget what she said. "Kids only need and want a safe space to grow up in, it doesn't matter where that is or how big it is.. As long as they feel safe"

[@Macanese]

This apartment is still spacious compared to most of those in Asia.

[@shanekemp8583]

+Buckleberry Ferry Because its shows how spoiled some propped are .

[@alcyonae]

Buckleberry Ferry it’s one of the dad’s points. He’s challenged for living in a dwelling where kids don’t have each their own room. Dad said that in other parts of the world, this is normal. OP is saying, in many parts of the world, they live even tighter. This is luxury and comfort still.

[@jamielynnjohncock]

Why are people so judgemental? If everyone was the same, life would be boring. He is a parent trying to do what he thinks is right for his kids. The size of the living space has nothing to do with the quality and experiences he is trying to give them. No matter what anyone does, people just have to judge. Can't we all just be happy for everyone that is doing the best they can? Parenting is the hardest job ever!

[@emilyabel5979]

This Dad is amazing! These kids are great! I LOVE this guy. He seems to really have it together. I love it!

[@Door-Rattle]

I wonder how this family is managing in the space now that the kids are a few years older, and also during covid?? Hopefully everyone is well and still loving city living :)

[@ntuthu263]

You grow into the space.

[@duplessis3]

they might be with mom who apparently lives in the suburbs. THat's also where the kids go to school , so that's where the playdates, all the school stuff etc is.

[@highdesert50]

Kirsten Dirksen you have an a wonderful ability to present alternative lifestyles, and do so without prejudice. Thank you for yet another snapshot to challenge our beliefs.

[@KatiaRush]

Beautiful comment x

[@orangepuppy11]

"You can do anything you set your mind to" this is so cute. I hope they grow up to be fine adults

[@kimisilv]

Wow, realizing from this dad how pretentious and lazily I have lived over the years. What a great human!

[@davidgochenour8028]

What an awesome dad. i love the way he interacts with all of them... Cool place too.

[@naturesweety]

This is Wonderful!! Having children share bedrooms is a great way to keep a family unit close. Love his values. He's definitely doing it all right!

[@kaylamcintyre4773]

I have shared a room with my sister for 18 years. Honestly, it was fine for years, but at around 14-15 years old all I wanted was my own room. She leaves the light on all night when I’m trying to sleep, talks on the phone, siblings always fart, and leave stuff lying around so it gets very messy. Sharing a room isn’t bad, but at some point they’re gonna need their own space.

[@naturesweety]

Kayla McIntyre I bet you wouldn't be as close to your sister as you are though. I'm sure at times it was trying, but it created a special bond. North America is the only place in this world that pushes for space.

[@wahltowahl1]

Blythe Aurnia Nádúr I am 1 of 7 kids and we shared rooms. When we were younger sharing was not bad but as we grew up we each needed a little more privacy.

[@kaylamcintyre4773]

Blythe Aurnia Nádúr I’m just as close we to my brother who I don’t share a room with as I am with my sister. It really doesn’t make that much of a difference in the long run...

[@flutterbree]

"Depriving your child of privacy from their siblings is a great way to establish family values!" Seriously, I agree with Kayla. Once you get to be a certain age, you've earned your right to your own room. EDIT: To clarify, I'm not saying he's doing it all wrong. As long as you are attentive to your kids' individual needs, you should have the right to raise them however you find appropriate. If one of 'em starts showing signs of distress over not having enough space, maybe something should be done is all!

[@anthonycbrown1952]

Adrian is providing his kids a quality of life that you cannot put a price on. Vancouver BC is very safe and beautiful with much to do. What I see is five well adjusted children of varying ages that are learning the values of patience, sharing, and feeling like a tribe. When one benefits... everyone benefits. Having one's 'own space' is highly over rated.

[@HoneybeeAdventures]

It’s really not that safe. I was appalled at the amount of drugs drunks prostitution. It was very scary. I had lived in Singapore for a year then landed in Vancouver b,c.... the suburbs like Langley is what I call safe. Children shouldn’t travel alone, that’s my only gripe

[@anthonycbrown1952]

If you have visited NYC, kids take the subway / bus to school everyday and we don't hear stories of kids being assaulted (it may occur but sometimes bad things happen to good people). We have to teach our kids how to live in a not so perfect world. If you noticed, the kids are not traveling alone. They travel together for safety but I take your point.

[@Noi5ee]

Having your own space is not over rated once you become a teenager.

[@dreonthetube]

Lmfaaaoo safe?!? No.

[@joshiyonnahayes6016]

Anthony C Brown i agree but me personally enjoy privacy im a teen so ofc but at times I have to share a room with my stepsister I absolutely hate it !! But other than that I wouldnt mind living in Vancouver it look so safe and peaceful its just beautiful😍❤

[@polenit6390]

Great stuff. I have 4 free range kids. All have grown up to be self aware. And have enjoyed them self’s. Only the youngest is still at home. He’s only young. Now I have 5 free range grand children. Enjoy your kids have fun

[@joebazooks]

$2300 in vancouver? what thats an absurdly good deal

[@ElectricityTaster]

per week?

[@prosmartdetails]

Electricity taster month ... who pays rent 1s a week ? Lol

[@ElectricityTaster]

@@prosmartdetails Holiday lets.

[@sleepymeadow6434]

That's crazy expensive. I'm in Scotland in a massive 2 bed for 450 a month, all modern appliances included. I don't even make 2300 a month or anywhere near it

[@boofert.washington2499]

For the landlord, maybe...

[@AGM-ts5bb]

You had me at "They don't match but you'll be ok!"!🖒Really great space! And yes, I agree; the humongous home and yard is not the norm in most of the world. And your rent is great for that area of Vancouver. Better to spend the money on recreation with the kids. By the way, you are doing a great job.

[@kiuakakirstine8257]

What a cool place and the kids looks like they're fine. The most important part of childhood is love and understanding. Kids don't remember how many times they went to Disney world, but they remember the time you spend with them being alert and listening! 💕💓

[@heyitsmae3109]

“I didn’t stole them, I borrowed them” If that ain’t me. 🤣

[@styledna24]

He’s a great dad ! Those kids are very lucky

[@rosechallenger2894]

It's so weird that children running around by themselves os called free-range. That's how I grew up in NYC. Taking the train and bus everywhere.

[@martinlehtonen]

I went to school by myself starting from first grade. It's totally normal here in Finland. Why would someone complain to the city? people seem to see dangers everywhere in NA. How will your children learn anything if they are not allowed to do anything?

[@nickrachjames]

abatemarco or the kids never leave home because they do not know how to get around

[@Ihold8stars]

It really feels different than when I was young and walking to school on my own by 5yrs old. I saw my first movie at a theater with a group of neighborhood kids when I was just 7yrs old I think the oldest in our group was 12! But now as parents we are watched over by big brother. We are all expected to conform into a tacky box lifestyle.

[@carenlook7902]

Same here. I roamed the streets of Kingston ja and then toronto, with my brother. Best days of my life. The memories are epic.

[@ashleymailer6376]

Karl Lehtonen back in my grandparents would roam free, on the streets and they thought it was perfectly fine. However, back then it was extremely dangerous and child abduction was at a all time high. Learning from common mistakes from our past parents have become more stricter in order to keep their kids safe. Though it is much safer now, in this decade. It's much or less out of fear.....

[@user-pv7nf3gu8u]

So...worst case scenario, the kids will grow up with elite sharing abilities. Wish more kids were raised with this mindset. Thought my family was living small until I saw this. Hats off to you, sir.

[@MariannaK94]

Beautiful family, beautiful home, admirable lifestyle. Love everything about you, guys.

[@matthewcain2880]

A great father ❤️ love how he allows his kids to be free. You could see the love in the household

[@MegaAwsomegirl101]

He is doing an awesome job... wish I lived like that when I was young.

[@carlygardner9561]

People saying he lives that way because he doesn't have enough money..... Um do they know how expensive Vancouver is? That apartment is gorgeous for that price.

[@myrccomedy3368]

Kirsten, you guys make great videos. I always love seeing a variety of different people living in adverse conditions that made it a beautiful simple home/life for themselves. They always are content & proud of their own creativity. Love it.

[@charliefoxtrot8001]

I don't see adverse conditions, especially here where the kids are living the week in a suburban house with a garden and the weekend in the city - sounds fantastic!

[@cmt9875]

Very inspiring, love all the creative solutions for making the most of that gorgeous space 💚

[@Chantwizzle]

We grew up without a lot of money. At one point our 5 person family lived in a 30ft camper. It's all what you make of it. Kids don't know what they're missing if they never had it. It makes you appreciate and take care of what you have, cuz there isn't a lot of space for things you don't really need. Also, we totally stayed home alone from age 10 while my mom worked. We walked home from school and made our own food and went to the store. And...none of us died. This guy lives in a beautiful condo in downtown Van. It's not like he put his kids out on the street. Other parents need to calm down and let people parent their own children.

[@brookeeberhard889]

This Dad I agree with and can relate with he mentions how in the Suburbs he was miserable because there is nothing to do in the suburbs pretty much so that’s why it’s a lot more fun to live in the city which I relate to a lot currently living in the suburbs

[@krysbobinski4756]

We lived in the country with our children, and when they grew up and left home my son said there was nothing to do in the city(meaning- no fishing,swimming,hunting, tobogganing,skiing,sports at the country school etc.), my daughter on the other hand moved to Vancouver(loves it,but comes home for peace and quiet). I personally love the country because I feel like I belong and It is wonderful to be in nature in an instant. I have lived in a large city and the country.

[@CuriousCat777]

It depends where u live in the suburbs. Everything can still be within walking distance.

[@veronicam2942]

Krys Bobinski I grew up in the country too, and I loved it! I could get lost playing outside for hours.

[@Captain_MonsterFart]

If you use punctuation it won't seem as though you are rambling like a crazy person.

[@veronicam2942]

Polite Q 😂

[@rebeccajeffrey2939]

What a great guy, and father. Really patient and caring. Lucky children and he is making an amazing contribution to the world - great adults from his parenting.

[@tiphneewestry3129]

I totally like their little family❤ .. and the sock struggle is REAL🤣

[@NochSoEinKaddiFan]

Now this single dad is an everyday hero. Not doing the big thing once when there is no choice, but doing the little things every day, even when you don't have to. An absolute rolemodel if you ask me

[@lisabatchman-brown6809]

All the way from St Louis, Missouri I absolutely love how this single dad is raising his children he's loving and they seem to be happy, healthy well-mannered is. This is awesome it just warms my heart! We need to see this positive light shed all over so Great job dad!!

[@petermitchell5240]

What a great little family and an awesome father. I really like the way that he is teaching his kids good wholesome values.

[@jhtang5441]

Kids should either be Fresh or Organic.

[@erifetim]

That somehow sounds tasty and disturbing at the same time.

[@wwaxwork]

This is insane. I used to take a public bus to school every day from the age of 8. Hell the government at the time encouraged it by issuing bus passes for us kids to show to get free travel. No one blinked an eye.

[@TabbyAngel2]

wwaxwork child predators everywhere dude. Have you not learned from all of the missing children cases?

[@evantruiyen2074]

TabbyAngel2 life is an experience . Life is dangerous we can and will for at anytime didn't mean bubble wrapping our kids is a good idea

[@Thetaramonique]

Most abductions are committed by people that the child knows. Pedophiles groom children over time to gain access to the child and earn their trust

[@robingagan6288]

wwaxwork did you say no to your parents. Did you take their food and say "it's mine now"

[@VegaChastain]

One may posit that it is from a LACK of being taught how to be responsible and capable that makes some children more prone to attack or kidnapping. Easy victims are those with no experience. (@TabbyAngel2)

[@walkingonrandom]

that's basically how I grew up... it's weird people think it's out of the norm, and he had to explain himself so much and explain it was a "choice" and not due to finances.. I think it's the best way to grow up honestly, and it's how most do in Europe!

[@mikeohernia5498]

the fact you had to explain it was not due to finances shows how snobby this city is

[@leox8201]

I wish all dad's are like him, being a father to his children and a responsible father

[@lewishairyes9851]

These kids are living luxury no one can complain when there are kids out there sleeping on the streets

[@sharleah2279]

Omgosh what a really good dad who gives a damn. Awesome way to utilise space to make it work for his family. Wish I had a dad that spent quality time with family.

[@sheenabailey]

So I wonder which Susan called the cops and reported them.

[@edunlap6594]

Or Karen. Could be either or both.

[@thelessimportantajmichel287]

It was Free Range Francine

[@hellohello2711]

His neighbor downstairs is black you racist Felicia

[@thatscool5401]

@@hellohello2711 nobody ever said black until you brought it up. Whos racist again?

[@nleb1993]

Somone with way too much time on their hands.

[@EmmaWalton123]

How awesome to see a dad taking such good care of 5 kids on his own! Kids can adapt and they seem happy. He’s done a great job!

[@maia2812]

What an amazing man and father, and what lovely responsible kids! Well done.