Definitely can't call them helicopter parents

[LisaR]

What is the opposite of a helicopter parent? Sorry, but I just can't imagine allowing my 13 year old to be unsupervised for 2 years - no friends, no adults? Seems a bit much to me. I know some kids have passions beyond the norm but it still seems like some guidance by adults is warranted at such a young age. What do you think?

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090828/ap_on_re_eu/eu_netherlands_young_sailor

 

[mumom95]

That's just crazy.

 

[shirleyb]

That is crazy.

 

[sbell111]

I'll admit that I'm a little jealous of the kid.

 

[freckles and boo]

I personally think it is reckless and stupid. Thirteen year olds are still kids. I realize she hasn't had a normal life and she is probably better equipped for the challenge than most adults. It still doesn't mean it is a wise idea. The two older teen boys who recently did this acknowledged it was very difficult emotionally, mentally, and physically. Both had to turn off tracking devices to keep pirates at bay. What happens if there is a piracy event and they discover a solo thirteen year old girl? Not good. I think the thing that bugs me most is the "record-breaking" aspect of it. Her dad seems like he is more interested in bragging rights than his kid's well-being.

 

[bumbershoot]

I think I want to live in the Netherlands!

(would not want DS to go off at 13 like that, but appreciate a country that doesn't consider it to be absolutely out of the realm of what parents can allow)

 

[MaryAnnDVC]

That's nuts.

Reminds me of the 7 year old girl flying the plane that crashed, killing herself, her father and her flight instructor. Her father was very into her celebrity, and her mother was a total flake.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jessica_Dubroff

 

[LisaR]

I personally think it is reckless and stupid. Thirteen year olds are still kids. I realize she hasn't had a normal life and she is probably better equipped for the challenge than most adults. It still doesn't mean it is a wise idea. The two older teen boys who recently did this acknowledged it was very difficult emotionally, mentally, and physically. Both had to turn off tracking devices to keep pirates at bay. What happens if there is a piracy event and they discover a solo thirteen year old girl? Not good. I think the thing that bugs me most is the "record-breaking" aspect of it. Her dad seems like he is more interested in bragging rights than his kid's well-being.

This is the thing that bugs me the most, as well. Travel the world WITH your kid. Teach her the ropes. She is certainly experienced but it is impossible for a 13 y/o to be prepared for every situation that could arise out on the seas. Forget about the world record. Go with her and experience it together.

 

[Mom21]

That's nuts.

Reminds me of the 7 year old girl flying the plane that crashed, killing herself, her father and her flight instructor. Her father was very into her celebrity, and her mother was a total flake.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jessica_Dubroff

That wasn't due to her. That was due to stupid adults making poor decisions that caused it. Not her competence that I can tell. As an ex controller I can tell you that instructor should know not to take off in weather like that. Even she said "do you hear the rain?" How sad for her and her family.

When this girl goes missing then they will wonder why. Stupidity on adults part. I saw a little girl today (maybe 2yo) that was climbing all over a car including adults in the car. She was up in the back window, climbing on a man's shoulders, etc. I can't tell you the anger I felt.