Derick and Jill Dillard draw unexpected criticism after posting Christmas photo of smiling son

Israel David Dillard is all smiles as he is surrounded by the gifts he received last Christmas. (Instagram/Derick Dillard)

When Derick Dillard posted a photo of his son Israel David grinning from ear to ear while surrounded by his Christmas presents, he thought that it would simply be a cute picture that would make fans go, "Aww!"

However, it only generated a lot of criticisms for him and his wife Jill Duggar concerning their parenting skills.

On his Instagram account (@derickdillard), Derick shared a photo of his son with the caption: "Israel loved his 1st Christmas!"

People were infuriated when they saw that Israel David was exposed to an electrical socket on the wall. "Look out for that electrical outlet, neglectful parents," someone commented.

Another added: "Accidental injuries are one of the top causes of death of children in this country. Baby proofing your home is the smartest thing you can do to protect your child. These safeguards were invented for a reason. Why take a chance?"

Someone even questioned if anyone is looking into Derick and Jill's parenting style. "The poor sweet little baby... That is very immature and inexperienced parenting," someone else wrote.

Of course, there were also tons of fans who were quick to defend Derick and Jill. "Wow!!! Just because the outlet is not covered don't make them bad parents," one wrote.

"People get a grip!" wrote another fan. "Growing up, we never had covers on outlets, we were told don't touch and we didn't. No parent is perfect; the baby is happy and healthy and loved, leave these poor people alone."

A fellow parent even admitted that she did not baby proof everything in her own home and don't see the point why Derick and Jill are being lambasted for it. "I never had covers on my outlets and my kids did okay. Kids are kids and will fall," she said. "Hey I'm 63 and I still trip. Just a part of life."

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