kids playing outside

[Ginny Favers]

My kids are 6 and 3 and I've just started feeling comfortable with letting them into our fenced backyard to play, mostly because we have a few little obstacles back there they need to stay away from.

As for the front yard, I am not sure I will ever let them out there on their own! We live in the back of a nice neighborhood, but recently had a situation where some guy was driving through, propositioning kids to go for a ride, and almost grabbed one. Too many crazies out there, and it only takes a second. I hate having them on a leash, though, because I so fondly remember running through my neighborhood as a kid and having the best time.

 

[poohfriend77]

My DDs are 10 and 8, and they've been able to play in our fenced backyard or the neighbor's yard since around 3 or 4. I admit I do still go outside when they're in the front riding bikes, but it's mostly to socialize with the other parents who are also out there. We don't hover, I promise. We have given them more freedom to ride their bikes around the pond or block, but there's almost always at least one adult outside within earshot.

 

[scoutie]

My five year old may play unsupervised in the front (cul de sac) or back yard, but if she wants to play at a friend's house, I call the mom first, and walk her over.

My eight year old may ride his bike or scooter to friend's houses.

My two year old is never allowed to play unsupervised in the front or back yard.

My neighbor won't let her six year old out of her sight. She's not allowed to play outside at all without an adult. She's worried about her being snatched by a stranger.