How 'Free Range' Parents Charged With Child Neglect Launched New Parenting Debate

[@hannahyoung2137]

It’s not only helicopter parenting and theres not only free range parenting... there’s a middle ground

[@xradelox]

Thank you!

[@jessicadaugherty8442]

I feel the same way too there should be a middle ground my parents they weren't helicopter parents and they didn't do free range they were protective but also let me explore too. I had to come in whenever the street lights came on. And if I didn't I got grounded by being told I can't go outside talk about that was devastating to me it's not being able to go outside I don't want to be inside.

[@bluesugar6455]

Hannah Young you're so right!I'm a mom and let hem explore but keep in mind their security.

[@TheShowThatSUX]

+Jessica Daugherty, we are similar. I want the kids to learn to make their own choices. Ours walks to school and is free to play: if HW is done, if chores are all done, and so on... They also have a cell phone, so they text to let us know they are here or there, so we know school is out but they are taking a detour. The other day they did no such text and disappeared(forgot to take their phone that day), OH THEY WERE BEYOND GROUNDED: no tv, no electronics.... IMO this is the hardest part of raising kids: yes we could sit on them and lock them in the house, and always know where they are and what they are doing. But they won't learn to adult that way, and honestly, our neighborhood is pretty good about community keeping an eye on the kids...

[@PrimateProductions]

TheShowThatSUX oh well...I guess it is good you are lucky enough (and have the finances) to live in such a neighborhood...many people are not so lucky!

[@Euina]

Anyone else ever lived in Japan? Kids as young as 4 will walk to school or the park alone even if they're like 2 miles away. This is literally nothing compared to what i've seen.

[@brianwingel2570]

Euina this isn't Japan this country is completely different and has many more dangers than Japan

[@TheChickenRiceBowl]

Lost Honor There are but they aren't stupid enough to try the same shit pedophiles in America do. Being part of the pack is huge there and if you are arrested you can say goodbye to the rest of your life. Their prisons are also incredibly abusive and inhumane as well. Most wouldn't be stupid enough to risk that kind of punishment for the .1% chance of raping a 5 year old one time before immediately being caught. Instead they let it out by making lolicon hentai. Americans on the other hand favor and even praise corruption and child abuse so pedophiles and abusers can have a field day here, but we like to pretend that's not the case because we're supposedly a "first world country".

[@TheShowThatSUX]

+Euina, Japan also has VERY VERY quick Police response and different laws. So that is not an ideal argument. However, we have reached the point in the USA where it is more likely DCF will take a kid than an abductor, and that is a problem. What this story tells me is I need an attorney on retainer, and to give my kids a card to give the cops when they overreact. BASICALLY, I AM HERE UNDER PARIETAL AUTHORITY WITHIN THE LAW; IF YOU OBJECT THIS IS OUR ATTORNEY AND HOW YOU GET MOM AND DAD. If they fail to call me or our legal appointed representative I WILL HAVE THE COP'S BADGE.

[@Anreii]

That's because it's Japan. The pedophilia attack rate and crime rate is much lower overall. The police are 10x better, and kids are correctly taught about street responsibility.

[@TheShowThatSUX]

+Anrei, so you think honorifics and gaijin are better systems? There is a price for that order...

[@cc3184]

So sad that teaching a kid independence is seen as some fringe attitude.

[@annabelgrace1267]

You can teach independence in many other safer ways.

[@sorbabaric1]

riikerman But this isn’t a world where people prey on children. As has always been, there are a few bad among the people out there. And the incidence of attacks /abductions are rare. And common sense measures can reduce that risk even more.

[@gandhi4538]

When they get kidnapped...

[@brutustantheiii8477]

@@annabelgrace1267 NO YOU CAN’T because it’s an entire MINDSET that Stunts kids growth and leads to the snowflake safe space demanding weak college students we see today

[@annabelgrace1267]

@@brutustantheiii8477 No, you can. I did. Everything was age appropriate. My kids still did not go out by themselves, until they hit their teens, but by then, they knew how to be and what to do, because they were shown early, taught early. They were allowed to try things. At home, they were taught to spoon feed themselves, for example, as early as possible. They were not allowed to go on their own to the store, because we lived near a highway. They could go with their friends, as pre teens, around 11 or so. Also, as a group, chances of being kidnapped, are greatly reduced.

[@milliefusion7340]

I raised free-range kids, back during a time when there was not a name for it. The point is to teach your kids to be vigilant when it comes to strangers, and to not be alone....always buddy up. They both had bikes and would ride their bikes all over town. Both are independent grown men today. My oldest is 30 and youngest will be 23.

[@plotting6863]

I'm happy that by pure chance your children aren't dead.

[@milliefusion7340]

No, not by pure chance. By good parenting, you can teach your kids about danger and how to steer clear from strangers. I raised my boys, how I was brought up. It was a different world then...much different. If I was to do it all over again in current times, I would reconsider.

[@milliefusion7340]

If you read the entire comment, you'd know my kids are adults now. I never said I lived in a big city...duh much?

[@ginadelsasso288]

Exactly.... We all learned stranger danger when we were kids

[@oldgreg2914]

@@milliefusion7340 Lack of parenting is not parenting.

[@scarlet5856]

What in the world I feel bad or the mother who went for prison just because she needed to leave her daughter in a park to work her shift to feed that child.

[@Lave_cake]

Scarlet hire a sitter have the bus take them home it's laziness this women belongs in jail when her kids go missing while walking home maybe she'll rethink what's more important working or having your kid get from point a to point b safely.not to mention plenty of parents do both just fine might take some extra work but welcome to Parenthood it's not easy nothing about free range kids is ok it just LAZYNESS AT ITS BEST.

[@Lave_cake]

I hope you aren't a parent and don't become one because if that's your take on this your kids or future kids are already in danger.

[@jessicadaugherty8442]

Riss728 wow are you kidding me you are quite comical l do you know that when my mother would hire babysitters they would end up being abusive and the cops would do nothing about it and taking the bus not every bus is going to be at someone's beck and call. It looks like they might live in the city so you're suggesting that they should take the city bus which could be worse for children. Whenever I was a kid I went all over the place I explored and guess what I need to joining the military and I turned out just fine. And so what you're saying is is that just because it's not your parenting style it's wrong. Not everybody wants to be a helicopter to their children. They want their kids to explore not live in their basement.

[@heavencordeiro996]

@Riss728 you are so disgustingly ignorant. I hope God shows you how horrible conditions can get in life then you’ll understand what it means to do what you have to do.

[@No1More1Mr1Nice1Guy1]

a whole shift alone is different than a few hours.

[@dsan5825]

What is wrong with ppl today? It's not free-range, it's parenting! That was normal and now ppl are so neurotic. 100 years ago kids worked in factories, now THAT, that was bad. Calling 911 because you see kids playing is sad. Kids used to roam the streets, on skates, bikes, wagons, skateboards and now you never see kids because they are in the house playing video games. I think letting your kid stay inside with their eyes glued to a screen is NEGLECT.

[@missxmarvel]

You sound like a good parent, locking kids up for your own comfort is neglect yes you are right about that. I wished more people could see that over parenting is a worser form of neglect.

[@suey8227]

Oh I so agree with you!!!! Thankyou for being a normal parent!!

[@brodywwww]

I agree that keeping children glued to a screen is just a bad. Everything has its limits. My son is 5 and the world today is a terryfing place unfortunately. I wouldnt let him go out on his own because on the off chance something did happen i would feel terrible. Why is so difficult for parents to take their children outside? My son has two recesses a day at school. When he gets off the buss he gets one hour (sometimes more) to blow off steam and after dinner as well and im with him the entire time. My house still gets clean dinner still gets cooked work still gets done. On the weekends im outside with him somedays from 8am to 6pm only coming in to eat and use the bathroom. Its not hard for children to gey ample outside time while still being supervised!

[@mahihowell8433]

I gue$$ you don't watch the news much huh? Somer Thompson from Florida look up that Tragic case just walking home one mile with her older brother & sister then ends up in a Georgia Landfill. Too bad the parents are doing their best to ensure the safety of their kids by supervising 'em in this Evil World which is a fairy tail to you! Nothing wrong with the parent heading to the school or park to make sure their kids are SAFE from Sexual Predators/killers. I

[@evalovesfoodp8999]

D Sanchez it is NOT spend time with the child that's another reason why there's rules!! So you could spend time with them!!

[@natalieevz4626]

When I was 9 and my sister was 6 we walked a mile to the playground almost every day. It's not something that should be considered neglect, it's just normal

[@mahihowell8433]

Same thing here Natalie yet.. Somer Thompson was murdered just walking home from school in Florida with her older brother & sister running ahead less than one mile! It's a different Evil World we live in so that's not cool to allow a Sexual Predator/killer even a speeding car to harm an innocent child. The state won't get SUED when something bad happens. My take. Nothing "normal" 'bout "Free Range children".

[@angelaconti1287]

It was ok 20 or more years ago. It's not so much now

[@DigitalChainsaw]

And did you live in a heavily urbanized area like these kids? It's NOT normal for a 6 year old to be out unsupervised by a parent, only a 9 year old. Your parents were fucked up.

[@milascave2]

Same here.

[@milascave2]

tanya: they don't, though. The media has totaly blown the danger out of proportion.

[@MaddieNiec]

Yeah, I don't really see a problem with a 6 and 10 year old walking a mile away to a playground. Especially since it seems like they know what they're doing, like the 10 year old is holding his little sister's hand.

[@celabonfir6287]

If someone came up to them and tried to take one or the other they would be scared for life with Guilt how would someone that young stop that from happening?/How to stop it have a parent with, or another trusted adult .Parents need to be involved now a days.

[@celabonfir6287]

Pedaphiles would like you to believe everything is safe. I had 2 children get molested'at ages 9 and ten a boy and a girl.. lesson was learned

[@CeeCeeB.]

As much as I would like it to be safe, a mile is a long way. And someone bad could take them. They are small.

[@majormana1]

He was 9 at time park was a mile away and they had to cross train tracks as well as at least 2 busy intersections.

[@Ikajo]

S. Hamdries Yet children are more likely to be accosted in their own home than abducted off the streets.

[@stiras1]

Sigh... America. I mean... do you guys realise that this is childhood ANYWHERE else in the world? When I was little I would walk home from school. I was 7 or 8 years old and I would walk over 3 kilometers home, and that's not uncommon. I would usually walk with other kids from my neighbourhood, but sometimes alone. My niece is now 7, she walks more than a kilometer home alone or with other kids. I remember being 17 years old and I went to the US as an exchange student. I lived a 15 minute drive from school, but it took me over an hour to get there because the bus had to stop outside every kid's house to pick them up. What about bus stops? We would have saved so much time! No wonder so many kids were fat, they never walked anywhere. They just sat in the school bus eating chips for breakfast.

[@stiras1]

I never feel scared out on my own. I often travel to London a lot on my own. Of course, as a woman, I would never walk into a dark alley late at night, but I don't feel scared being out alone even when it's late.

[@stiras1]

Maybe not for you. I am Norwegian and I grew up this way, so did my friends. I also have Swedish and Danish friends who grew up walking around outside by themselves. I am not saying that every single family does things the same way, but it is defiantly not uncommon for Scandinavian children to be allowed to be outside alone.

[@squirrel6102]

In my town everybody walks or rides their bikes everywhere by themselves and I live in America

[@Jefrma]

you norwegians, swedes, danish people, us finns... people from these four countries must laugh their asses of at this free range parenting "shocker" USA seems to view it as.

[@missxmarvel]

Overprotective nut jobs should be charged not parents with a normal functional brain.

[@victoriamadrid809]

It's a sick world when people justify the government taking other people's children from their home and traumatically placing them in a parent-less system where they are more likely to be hurt in every way imaginable. Over-reaching much? There are methods we might not agree with but to even suggest displacing children out of paranoia is disturbed.

[@ilikeglitterwhores]

Victoria Madrid YES! F***ing THANK YOU! Finally someone with some common god damn sense!

[@penelope3506]

“Oh No, better hide!” Yup that’s what we all feel when we see police, they just learned a bit early.

[@junebug7339]

I am like that too

[@phoenixdavida8987]

SheShe RiRi i feel that way. A LOT.

[@jazzyjess5202]

Yes it is sad...but it doesn't mean we were raised to be that way..we have learned that through experience and observation.

[@a.g.5838]

The nosey neighbors need to mind their own buisness. Calling the police or interacting with someone else's kids is not their job. It's not the polices job to intercept two children making THEIR OWN childhood memories. Thsts just traumatic. There are always risks when raising children,these parents are choosing, what they believe to be, the best path for their family. Leave them alone.

[@annabelgrace1267]

Well, if you and Chris Brown weren't up to nonsense, you wouldn't have to

[@cathrynkavanaugh1777]

A lot of kids in Japan are sent to school at 6 years of age using the bus or train on their own. So much farther than these kids go, and going alone in much bigger cities.

[@jeniko2841]

True, however Japan has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. If you drop money people will chase you down to give it back to you. It would be nice if America had that mentality in the vast majority.

[@istompconservativeass2029]

great for Japan... but America is a shit hole with a very evil, perverted culture... a lot of mental illness in the USA

[@kazunabe4288]

A Google User it's not quite THAT simple. It's not like it isn't frowned upon. It certainly isn't "accepted" and women aren't just expected to be okay with it. Women can stand up for themselves and can report it. The difference is, here it's seen as a much bigger deal than there. While as here it an unwelcome grope is seen as almost rape, in Japan it's more like an innapripriate nuisance committed by perverts. Perverts exist...therefore this unfortunate event may occur. Here in the US it's the end of the world if a guy looks at a woman the wrong way. There are signs everywhere in Japanese subways and train stations prohibiting such behavior. It's simply a difference of cultures.

[@valeriepaulsen5236]

Cathryn Kavanaugh different culture.

[@brianwingel2570]

Cathryn Kavanaugh japan is a different country with less violence and less missing children

[@sanchopancho6124]

In most kidnapping or child abuse cases it's the parents/family member or someone they know! It's most likely your kid's gymnastic teacher, pastor, uncle, friend's father or.. your new boyfriend. It's a fact :( These kids know what to do, their parents taught them well. They seem like confident, independent, mindful,happy kids. This is how kids in Europe live and in many other parts of the world.

[@Charles-hy6gp]

@Jim Elliott don´t be idiotic, Madeline was freaking 3, not 7 or 8. A 3 years old need babysitter. They can´t develop independence until at the age of 5

[@victornieto5857]

Parents should have the right to raise their children how they want, unless they have harm done to them. If people try to set laws against it, all you're doing is giving the government more power to control us and tell us how to do things.

[@cindyhetzler4333]

it really depends on how safe your neighborhood is but while a 12 yrold could outrun a predator no way a 6 yr old can.

[@suey8227]

These parents totally have the right idea. i grew up that way, i bought my kids up the same way, within reason. parents are over protective these days, and wrap the kids in cottonwool. if wrapped so tightly, they will not learn responsiblity. Or how to navigate life on their own. You have to give kids some freedom!!

[@foofy3406]

Suey, my friends and i always played on our own, when we were young. just had to have homework done during the school year, & be in for dinner in the summertime. as long as we were home by dark, no one was concerned. it was fun. and i would never call my parents "neglectful."

[@foofy3406]

i would rather my children walk to the park than sit home and play video games or watch tv.

[@PrimateProductions]

Suey well we certainly see what the kids being raised by people who have a problem with the way the couple on this video raise their children are turning out like...take a glance at millennials in general...most are clueless about being grown ups and the real world!!

[@Lemonz1989]

Uuuh... My mom just said "dinner will be at six" and we (my brother and I) just went out to play. We listened to her and she trusted us to be safe. With guidance of how to act around cars, strangers, weather etc.

[@thereseward7852]

I parented this way. My son loved to climb to the top of 30 foot trees. Neighbors called the police. No charges were filed. Now almost 40 years old he still spends the majority of his time outdoors. He has excellent references from his employers because he is a hard worker and never complains. I encouraged him to get a physical job. He became a tree trimmer, hard wood floor installer, construction worker and large window installer. He works to perfection and enjoys his job and life.

[@kdawson8981]

I was in 1st grade and was allowed to ride my bike pretty much anywhere. It was the 1980’s and I grew up in a small tiny little town. Still, what a GREAT childhood I had. The freedom to choose, troubleshoot my own problems as a child, helped mold me into a business owning woman.

[@lisamanning8334]

yeah but this isn't the 80's anymore and kids were not being sold as sex slaves ...REALLY

[@gigisoglamorousipeeglitter7466]

I grew up in the 80's as well. Lived in a very small town and walked home from school at age 8 and stayed home alone until my mom came home from work each evening. Everybody always thinks things were so much safer back then. Maybe compared to today, overall, yes...but I was still assaulted by a child predator at a park and both of my parents were at the park with me nearby. My dad coached a softball team that my mother was on and all the kids of the team members played on the playground when they'd have their games. It just goes to show you can't be too careful. Danger is literally everywhere.

[@kdawson8981]

Lisa Edwards um yes they were. Give me a break. The media makes everything seem so dangerous. Lol! It’s sad that people believe everything they see on TV. Crimes against children have been happening since the beginning of time. It didn’t just start in the last 30yrs. Raise your children to be independent, it’s the absolutely best thing you can teach your kids.

[@chrismeyers5963]

I agree Katie, I was born in 77', loved the 80's, me and my younger sister had an awesome childhood, I would go ride my bmx bike at the track about a mile or so from the house, my sis would go run to her friends house, we knew when it started to get dark we had to head home. Man, the awesome adventures I had lol, I had an over active imagination as a kid so I was always off somewhere, but my parents knew where I was, kids these days have " clutchy " parents and it's no wonder you see YT vids of kids these days ding stupid stuff, or they can't even d the simplest of things, like cook, clean, mow the yard, hell they can't even change a flat tire without having t use " Google " or some shit lmao

[@majormana1]

9 and 6 busy intersection and train tracks. I bet even in 80's you where told not to cross train tracks before you turned at least 10.

[@suiiperable]

What the hell is this even a problem? Kid are neither pets nor prisoners.They should be allowed to go out when they want to play outside as long as it is not dark out.

[@missxmarvel]

You sound like a reasonable parent. Props to you.

[@bigdumby6915]

(This is late but oh well) Kids can easily be kidnapped, that’s why it’s such a big problem.

[@jaelynnbill2616]

Unfinished Cheesecake they could always being easily kidnapped. Right beside you they could easily be kidnapped. Its better to teach them how to respond to strangers, and to teach them how to be more independent. You could be kidnapped as pretty easily as an adult as well. I do think school should be taken seriously but walking to the park or the store? Come on now!

[@MrCamel2humps]

Because the world is becoming progressively unsafe more and more each year. Wake up people, it’s not 1950 any more!

[@rudra62]

No. The crime rate has been going down steadily since about 1990. It's just that we have this 24 hour news cycle, so we hear about a lot more. In 1950, these things were "just not talked about". They happened. It still does. Statistically, they're far more likely to be abused by a family friend or activity leader or family member than grabbed by a stranger on the street - which is quite rare.

[@googlesuxbigtime1227]

Growing up, by 10 years old I was taking public transportation across the city to see my mom. My friends and I would go to Cubs games on our own.

[@drewtyler4974]

Googlesux Bigtime same here, I was getting buses to meet up with friends and go to the beach or ice skating. I was always grown up for my age and by age 11 my mum was fine with me going whether I wanted.

[@celabonfir6287]

Things have changed there are even more threats to children .

[@shergirl92]

I grew up this way my mom just called out for us when she needed us My bother went to town in the next town at 10 he just ask for directions

[@TheKrazykraker14]

Yep .. Me to .. My mom could whistle like a Sailor .. We knew we had 10min to get in .. LoL

[@No1More1Mr1Nice1Guy1]

yeah just yell lol. thats how id be called in at night... was never ever that far drim home anyways and other parents looked out for you too.

[@foofy3406]

i see nothing wrong with this. i agree with these parents re: helicopter moms. free range parenting is not neglect.

[@Candace-1982]

What is the mom talking about when she says "The world is the safest it's ever been"? Thats completely false.

[@sorbabaric1]

Candace Hood actually statistics say she’s right.

[@Kimbeeerleeey]

How is it false? Where's your proof?

[@nathanthelibertarian1406]

Czo Lish the crime rate in 1986 was 5.5%. The crime rate in 2016 was 2.84%. Statistics provided by disastercenter.com

No, it is true. Far safer. Much much much safer. You are simply brainwashed by the media. Join the world! The water is nice and warm? Your way of thinking has given us the horrible child abuse called obesity. Fat kids and fat adults because YOU are too lazy to be a good parent. I can safely assume you are 30 pounds or more overweight as are your kids. Thanks MOM!

[@sandralee8855]

Omg nobody is saying stay on them constantly....you can watch your kids and not be on top of them....

[@joycewobbrock2289]

My daughter made money when she went to college teaching other kids to do chores and navigate the real world. Our children grew up free range but tons of responsibility. 4 great adults.

[@oohlalapaola]

Parents are allowed to raise their child however they want...but also need to be aware that our surroundings are not safe as they used to be...dangers...getting hit by a car...molested...kidnapped...raped etc...also the kids look pretty young...there are sick ppl out there...just bothers me how some parents are so irresponsible and when an accident happens they look for an excuse to blame it on someone..when they should have supervised their child to begin with...maybe look for another adult to take them to the park if you can't...for their safety accidents happen.

[@hetaliahostclub220]

oohlalapaola they where responsible they said that they trained there kids. so many kids go to parks and stores by themselves, it happens so often and no one gets hurt. i didnt get hurt. 10 is not pretty young eather

[@dtbroad5862]

Actually your information is incorrect. All of the crimes you mentioned have gone down not up. It is safer now than it used to be. That was do to teaching kids in the past. This latest group of kids growing up now, with their helicopter parents is predicted to be the most narsocystic generation ever. They are growing up almost incapable of doing anything by themselves. They are unable to accept rejection or losing because "everyone's a winner, and everyone is perfect. " This next generation be raised by these helicopter conservacunt parents is terrifying.

[@missxmarvel]

There is always danger but it's your job to teach them how to deal with it such as felt defense class

[@marielar704]

Maybe the crime rate has gone down but the chances of being hit by a car is still a big issue.

[@rudra62]

When I was a child and a young adult, we called these helicopter parents of today "overprotective mothers". They were usually neurotic, and their children often had poor outcomes - were also afraid/neurotic/medicated, or they rebelled completely and were gang members or runaways as teens.

[@SINAMYN3]

I went to school with 2 girls who was allowed to go out alone. They went missing and ppl saw it happen. I still have no clue what happened to them.

[@THEONLYGORE]

in the 70's 80's and 90s..... THIS WAS NORMAL !!!!! Wtf is wrong with people these days where they think they have ANY say in how parents choose to let their children learn the world around them.... Sheltered kids are the ones who end up failing in society.... always falling back on mommy and daddy to bail them out everytime they see trouble or something they don't understand....

[@foofy3406]

ur right. most parents work nowadays. there is nothing wrong with being a latch-key kid. kids are too coddled these days

[@Porkchop_Delight23]

Kids get abducted right out of their own yards. I cannot believe someone called 911 because 2 kids were "walking around on their own for 20 minutes." When I was a kid, our parents used to drop us off in the toy section of a store and leave us there to entertain ourselves while they went off shopping for hours. My friends and I ran all over the neighborhood on our own almost every single day. My bus stop was a mile away from my house, I had to walk to and from the bus stop, often by myself, every single school day. It seems ludicrous to me that this is considered "child abuse" when there are very real child abuse cases of parents beating their kids, and people are upset because these happy "free range" kids are walking to the park.

[@tinamorey8412]

The biggest lie the devil ever told was that he didn't exist... We are living in the last days according to the books of Revelation & Daniel in the BIBLE. Times are different than when I was growing up... I'm a child of the 70's...and we walked to the public swimming pool by ourselves all the time... BUT I do remember taking shortcuts & being bothered by men. All I can say is GOD plz protect the children...

[@deniecedonnafield1460]

I am for the parents all the way! My mom used to let me go to the beach by myself with my dog at the age of 4 and 5 years old and stay there all day long and then come home three blocks away with my dog! I could roam all over the place! I learned to survive on the streets! It made me a more aware of my surroundings and a better understanding of how others humans behave! Yes I had some close calls but without learning how to survive from the beginning I may not have been able to survive on bad time encounters! I believe I'm a better person today because of the freedoms my mother and father allowed me to have! Thank God I never got wrapped up in drugs! Thank God I had parents that educated me and steered me in the right direction allowing me to also have my freedoms! They allowed and taught me to be independent! Thank you my spiritual mom and dad!

[@michaeladodsworth2749]

I'm 29 my father is in his seventies I was definitely raised in the old school fashion where all the kids would be outside by themselves riding bikes up and down the block you were allowed to go within a certain perimeter and you had to be home by sundown to me this is normal parenting however given my situation with my daughter now I want to allow my daughter to go wandering or playing anywhere by herself. in a group id say okay if she was just down the street, but I have different circumstance I think everyone should be able to choose what's right for them!

[@MissKealoha]

I was a latch key kid along with almost every kid in my neighborhood growing up. We're all alive and well.

[@SilverBunnyStudios]

This case is insane!! XD "Free Range"?!! isn't that just normal parenting without freaking helicopter parents?!! What kid can't walk a block to the park by themself?!! I mean their were just as many pedophiles 50 years ago as their are today, so why are parenting rules different?! Parents who are to hovery end up raising spoiled kids who literally cannot do the simplest things. I have a friend with helicopter parents, she doesn't even know how to do her own laundry and her mom cleans her room! SERIOUSLY?!!

[@oakohcan]

Its not a block away. Its Ina busy city 1 mile away

[@ArStarSSBM]

SilverBunnyStudios these people also dont put their children in school

[@mahihowell8433]

How long have you been DELUSIONAL? Don't watch any news huh? It's not even close to being like the 1970's anymore so time to come back to REALITY!

[@rudra62]

We didn't have 24 hour international news in the 1970s. We didn't have "Amber Alerts" where you heard of every missing child in the nation, within minutes of that child going missing. The crime rate has been going down steadily since 1990.

[@novemberonathursdaymanymoo7459]

"Oh no! I need to hide"... that statement from the older child spoke volumes to me... she has a fear the police will keep her and her sister away from their parents

[@Antidote1991]

its crazy when you're more afraid of police and cps than you are of your child being kidnapped.

[@gracelewis6071]

Rebecca Guitar Yes, this.

[@choux8372]

I agree with the parents. My older brother and I are a year apart, but my parents always let him go out wherever he liked as soon as he was 8. Because I was a girl, they only let me go to the bookstore on my way home after school. Once I was 16 and finally allowed to go places and my curfew was extended to 8pm, I was much too scared to take the bus alone for fear I would end up stranded near the projects and it was REALLY hard to feel comfortable walking without supervision, so much so that I sometimes just avoided going outside. Kids should be allowed to roam a little on their own, but within reason of course.

[@maybaby13x]

I think a lot of this comes down to care and effort of behalf of the parents. This couple have made a conscious choice to let their children have a bit more freedom and talked about a phased approach with it. The children seem happy, well adjusted and are clearly loved. It’s not as though the parents have left their kids home alone or wandering around for hours whilst they get high. I think a little perspective may be needed here.

[@anydae]

I understand why people would react this way because its no longer safe. If the kids went missing..... its another story. But they can be "free range" in other ways.

[@2xtream]

The parents are 100 percent right. Pigs and nosy rosy find something else to do

[@XxNekoMoonxX]

it’s so weird that the generation raised with freedom is the most controlling and protective

[@cyanide_lollipop3264]

There's just no way I would've allowed my daughter to walk a mile to a park by herself at age 6. There's just certain standards of safety I feel compelled to meet as a mom who loves her kids.

[@thescottsman4965]

the question is always...whos needs are being meet...the parents need for either the quelling of thier own anxiety vs the childs need for developement of autonomy...with of course the environment having been reasonably assessed...we must prepare the child for the road not the road for the child...

[@Em-vv8jr]

Agreed! Six is too young.

[@nikki-lamm359]

Little bit of both. Range and a bit of a helicopter... they need to know your there, but not over baring.

[@newnana9070]

I grew up this way, but, times were slower, everyone in our neighborhood looked out for the kids and knew your parents or where you lived. There wasn't the craziness we have to day. Adults aren't safe a mile from home let alone a 10 and 6 yr old. I applaud your trust in your fellow man.

[@CPenn-us7ks]

"My first thought is 'Oh no, better hide.'" hahahaha

[@debramedina9347]

Free range kids are targets for predators. Free risk parents have been warned. When their unsupervised kids become victims, what are the parents going to do?? Call the police!! Oops, too late and where are the kids?? Are they safe?? Will they come home safely?? Most kids don't. Free range parents are "educated" and believe we live in a safe world. I pray for kids' safety everyday and for their parents to have enough wisdom to be responsible for these young lives. Basically, free range parents don't give a rip about their kids or what happens to them, til it's too late.

[@rudra62]

The children are about as likely to be raped, brutalized, abused, or killed in their own homes as they are on the street. They may be abducted even with a parent with them - the parent may be abducted too. The world is an unsafe place.

[@cynthiaquezada6982]

I always think about Japan when I see stories like this. Japan's culture encourages independence and not being so needy of your parents and instead relying on yourself.

[@joycloud]

Where I live, if you live 1 mile or less from the school your kids have to walk to school. Even 5 yr olds. I thought that was crazy myself, even though we live in a small town. Myself, I climbed the pool fence at 4 at our local resort when no one was there. It was a miracle I didn't drown.

[@heavenlovestitanic]

Parents are nuts letting their kids out like that. Whether it's rare or not for your kid to get hurt/kidnapped, why would you chance it?

[@lexitaylor4800]

Okay seeing those kids walk home alone gave me so much anxiety.

[@rudra62]

Yes. Seeing those children walking might mean that they grow up to be a reasonable weight, without type 2 diabetes by the time they're 20.

[@theresadurso4455]

I’m 34 and medically can’t have kids... but this is how I was raised, street lights came on, you went home etc... the world isn’t a scarier place now, more things have been put in place so that it’s more available. I’m a free range child and damn proud of it

[@mellyjames5932]

People keep saying "well I was raised to go where ever alone, I wanted and I'm fine"Its like people think because nothing happened to them, that it doesn't happen. What about the kids that did have something happen to them? What about the kids who were kidnapped or killed or raped? sorry, they are not on KZbin or around to tell you about the horrors they endured. I'm sure they would have loved to have grown up without any harm and to be able to say "I am fine," "nothing ever happened to me" or "I survived". So just because you grew up fine , don't assume everyone else did too.

[@nicolawildflower7920]

Jana Herde Success I'm pretty sure it happened a lot more frequently back then because there were a lot more unsupervised children walking around back then. These days most parents know how to use their brains (or just actually give a crap about their kids) and try to protect their children as much as possible from predators. Clearly parents started being more protective over their children because there was a need to. There are just as many perverts and pedophiles in the world today as there have ever been, there just aren't as many children on the loose as there were 50 years ago because parents started to realize that supervising their kids was a safer alternative than the 50/50 chance of their kid returning home in the evenings. Even though we don't hear about those horrible types of crimes as frequently, they still happen. All it takes is the right sicko with an opportunity.

[@mellyjames5932]

Nicola Wildflower Nicole, THANK YOU!!! You are so right, thank you for explaining it. People just don't listen and try to justify their careless parenting. It's irresponsible. Kids can't raise themselves they need you. Not all the time hoovering over them but making sure they are safe and if that means going with them to the park or walking them to and from school, so be it. Again you don't have to "helicopter" you can give them space but know the time and the place, parenting takes work and if your not willing to put the work in then maybe you should have thought twice about being a parent!

[@mellyjames5932]

Jana Herde Success no one said anything about monitoring your kids 24/7. You immediately assume because a parent shows even the slightest bit of concern for their child's safety, that they are hoovering or a helicopter parent. Which is simply not true. My kids play in the back yard on their own, and they play outside alot. I just make sure they aren't running the streets or at the park on their own. And as for driving a 13 year old to a playdate, pretty sure 13 year olds don't have "playdates". (Play dates are for young children not teenagers) but we are talking about children, young children. Kids under 12 should not be roaming the streets. I'm not saying teens should be either, but that's were your parenting comes in, you set rules (curfew ect) .

[@mellyjames5932]

Jana Herde Success and lastly, parents aren't paranoid, they are now more cautious because we know now of the dangers. Again my siblings and I all fell victim to predictors while out on our own. We know now the Grimm details of the murders and rapes that happened in the past. And as a parent your first instinct should be to want to protect your child, not risk it for the sake of them "learning how the streets work". We live in a civilized society this isn't friggin Sparta hahaha you want them to learn, TEACH THEM, I know that requires spending time with them, and apparently that's considered monitoring (wtf really?) But give it a shot. It's not hard, and if it is, then I said it before and I shall say it again, you should have thought twice about having kids.

[@t.kayslanaker8507]

I was raised in the 50s when that sort of thing was more common. It is much too dangerous today. Plus letting children make health decisions etc. without life experience is irresponsible

[@gdraaucgihaenrty6905]

“It’s the safest it’s ever been” lmao def not

[@charlesjames3328]

Good for the parents. That's two less kids that will be looking for a safe space with crayons when they get to university.

[@pixbyeli]

Personally I would wait until my children were a little older before I let them walk a mile to the park in a busy city like that. When I was 12 my dad let me take by 8 year old sister on walks all around, toy shop, ice cream, etc. I think that's a better age for that kind of freedom.

[@posterlion]

I used to ride my bike downtown to put inserts in the Sunday paper when I was eleven. Oh yeah, and I got paid for that. The modern world is nuts.

[@blueelikohlani8742]

It all depends on where you live. I'm from Hawaii and the place i grew up was safe. My parents let me walk to school on my own since the age of 8. Well okay i guess its because my school was literally right around the corner from me. But i was allowed to ride my bike, go out with friends and go to the park on my own without a bother. i always knew my boundaries and knew to go home before it got dark and not to talk to anyone i don't know. I think the furtherest i ever went as a child on my own was a park that was a 10 to 15 minute walk. My parents had trust in me. I knew to stop in and tell my mom if would be out for a bit longer and if it was dark i stayed close to home with 4 or more friends. But i guess they're more kidnappers and more children going missing these days.

[@majormana1]

The cars and train tracks are more of issue then kidnapping media blows that up.

[@alicialines9785]

Welp, I live in Poland and I often see kids about six or so walking around by themselves, it's more so in the smaller towns but I've seen it in some larger ones as well.

[@youtuber-vb7qi]

And now that they’ve done a story about them showing all of their faces, all of the child molesters will be flocking to try to pick up their kids. Way to go mom and dad

[@dyers1210]

49 here. I remember being allowed to go anywhere I wanted. When the street lights came on I best be home.

[@chibicat13]

I am in my mid 30's. Growing up in a small fishing village I could go outside and play wherever I wanted so long as I was home by a certain time. No one batted an eye to this concept because everyone elses kids had the same guidelines. It is awful now that these kids fear the police. I was taught as kid that cops were the people you go to if you were in trouble. Now that I think about it, cops were more friendlier back in the day too! We had a mountie who would patrol our community every weekend... once in a while he would stop just to say hello. I don't think the cop in this story did what he did because he wanted to... I bet he knew that the complaint was absurd, but if he did not do anything, he'd most likely would have faced discipline of some kind... so really what option did he have?

[@mariagmartinho]

Chibi Neko Then why not approach the kids, ask what they were doing and taking them back home? 5 hours in detention?!? This is absurd!

[@elegy8310]

There are a lot of batshit ideas that come along with "free-range parenting," but this? This is a problem? What the fuck? Letting your kids go to a park a mile away isn't neglect. Are kids supposed to sit inside in front of a TV all day, or what?

[@Mokiimo]

I wonder if they're targets now after this interview.

[@JarethTheGoblinKingForever]

Here's another modern buzzword akin to "free-range" - "helicopter parenting". Overprotective parents who watch their children like a hawk are the ones who get children who violently rebel as teens, or the parents who get needy adults wanting to live in the basement with no direction in life. No financial skills, no personal hygiene skills, no basic safety skills or understanding of simple neighbourhood navigation... it's quite disgusting. -_-

[@rudra62]

Another buzzword from the 1960s or 1970s is "overprotective parenting". It was viewed as pathological, often with the overprotective parent having neurotic anxiety issues pushed off on the kids. It rarely came out well. It won't for huge numbers of today's children.

[@JarethTheGoblinKingForever]

There seems to be an ever-growing fear among parents today that if they don't watch their kids 24/7, something bad will happen. Granted kids should be taught not to talk to strangers and where to report if they've been abused or molested and all that, but today's parents won't even let their thirteen-year-olds go to school without a cell phone these days, "in case something happens and I need to call them". When I was a kid, as you grew up you learned how to cope without having your mommy holding your hand all through childhood. That was only the early 2000's too, so it's surprising how fearful parents have become in that time span.

[@rudra62]

What these parents don't seem to notice is that bad things will happen. That's part of life. The challenge is to teach them reasonable things for self-preservation, as are age appropriate, and what to do WHEN something bad happens. When I was a kid, there were no such things as cell phones. You were out of communication with your Mommy and Daddy for the duration. If your parents NEEDED you for some reason, they'd come, tell the school why, and pull you out of school. Or, if you had to be notified of something that had happened. I saw very fearful parents in the early 2000s, and it appears to be getting worse. It's bordering on paranoia - of parents who believe that EVERYONE out there is trying to "get at" their kid in particular - with designs for pedophilia or child porn. I'll agree those are bad things, but MOST people find those things revolting and support ways to stop them and put those doing them in prison. There are many other crimes. Meanwhile, these same fearful parents who are terrified that "something might happen" if the child were sent outside, keep the child indoors. In addition to depression and loneliness - those were the same things used to punish us in the 1960s and 1970s, the child becomes obese - which is made worse by various antidepressants. Now, it is known that obesity has lifelong ill-effects, and many of the psych meds they're handing out to little children shorten life expectancy too. Lack of socialization/social skills for a child also has a bad effect for the rest of someone's life. They appear to be exchanging "something might happen" for "We're causing something irreversible to happen".

[@JarethTheGoblinKingForever]

I agree completely. I think part of the fear among parents comes from the fearmongering in the media. Ironically crime rates have gone down in recent years, but turn on the news and the anchormen are raving about everything from child porn dungeons to drug dealers. Crimes like this do happen and it's terrible, but parents aren't doing their kids any favors by isolating them and not teaching them any safety or social skills, and then just sending them off to university or work when they've been completely sheltered their whole lives. I also think it's really ridiculous to give a little kid a cell phone, not to mention somewhat hypocritical because there are predators online now way more than in the street or at the park. I remember in 2001, 9/11 happened and I think that really terrified North America (understandably so), but suddenly there wasn't just a fear of terrorism, there was a fear of everything that might possibly shatter peoples' idyllic American dream lifestyles, and the whole country has really had a lot of trouble learning to move past this ordeal. The school shootings at Columbine High School and Sandy Hook also seemed to scare adults into taking away everything that people used to enjoy as kids. A lot of parents refuse to let their kids go trick-or-treating anymore, even with parental supervision, because of the good ol' razor blade in the apple rumors that started up in the 80's. A lot of parents now just let their kids watch Netflix and they buy them a bunch of candy instead of letting them experience something fun and real. And god forbid any parent let a child play in the woods, even though I've been hiking alone in the woods since I was six and nothing ever happened because I was taught to stay safe and avoid dangers. It's sad that nowadays so many kids are spending the few years of childhood they have in life just sitting on the sofa in front of a video game just because their parents are too scared to let their kids be kids.

[@tavern2468]

I wouldn't do this but this is government over reach and cps can be helping children who really need it instead of doing this

[@theoriginaleb9616]

People see nothing wrong with this free-range parenting, then they start screaming “where were the parents?” when the child gets abducted.

[@241cupcakelover]

My father was a hover parents. I am 24 years old I have working at my current job for over two years, and I know how to money manage. I can take care of myself and that was because I had a hover parent. Not every child is going to turn out like that because they have a hover parent.

[@JaneDoe-on9fg]

a lot of them do tho just like my sister and many others i know that were babied all of their lives. kids need to make mistakes and learn on their own

[@ladyJustis]

Nobody said you had to be a hover Mom OR a free-range Mom...There is an in-between place lady!!

[@ellepoynton935]

A mile really isn’t that far, i just googled and my childhood home is literally a mile from my primary school which I used to walk to by myself all the time! Honestly this isn’t “Free Range”, this is just traditional parenting.

[@MichelleDespres]

In my city, the kids who live a mile or less from home do not have access to the school bus. They walk to and from school. All of them. Every day. How dangerous.

[@teresajeno6443]

yes I walk all over the place. i was also molest and almost pick up by a stranger. That was between the 1960 and 1970. What if your child is kidnap or hit by a car. You can train your child all you want but things happen. What if your at work, your children can get into all kind of trouble. Helicopter mom maybe i was a little but it is called having rules. Your have to follow rules all your life. My children are doing great. No problems. Just healthy sercure children. You can close your eyes and pretend your children will be okay but your not protecting your children.

[@Twinkie989]

I used to be the only adult at my local park. It was full of “free range” kids. They would always come over to me and tell me that there was nobody there to feed them or take them to the bathroom, etc. I ended up always having to pack a huge basket of food for Kids with no lunch. These parents are full of crap. If you have the luxury of being able to be there with your 6 year old, walk to the park with you kid and sit on a bench letting them do their own thing. They are only little for such a short time. There is a place of being present without being a helicopter- it isn’t as black and white as they want to pretend.

[@strawberryjones7193]

there is something wrong with these parents. a mile it way to far, especially in this day and age. my God.

[@mayas08]

How ironic she wouldn't be thinking that way when her kids get kidnapped....

[@isissahara388]

While this is a beautiful idea, unfortunately the times we're living in just aren't safe enough to do that. No one says chain your kids to a radiator but this is irresponsible.

[@mahihowell8433]

Well Spoken! DCF don't want to get SUED when these kids come on the News after they VANISH from a public street with Pedo bears/killers out there. Darwin's Theory is not just a theory!

[@rudra62]

Statistically, the crime rate is MUCH LOWER now than it was 20 years ago, or at any time since the 1950s. Back then, we didn't have 24-hour news cycles, instant international news. Moreover, when "something happened" to a child, it was "just not talked about". The perception was that it didn't happen. The reality was that the pedos and child pornographers were your friends and neighbors. It's statistically VERY UNLIKELY that someone will just grab a random child off the street. "Grooming" the child is part of the fun and games for the criminals.

[@mellyjames5932]

Tell that to my brother who was pulled into a car when he was just 8 years old. You have no idea how Pedos or criminals work, they are disturbed, unpredictable and dangerous.

[@TheChickenRiceBowl]

Melissa James Well explain how they "work" then since you have a PhD in criminal psychology.

[@TheChickenRiceBowl]

Headcynic "Grooming". EXACTLY. Children are often groomed by family members, friends of family members, coaches, preachers, or neighbors, usually over long periods of time. But nobody wants to think about their Aunt Martha raping little cousin Sally or their dad raping their step brother. So they just defend, enable, or ignore it instead and project their gross family issues onto the rest of the world, claiming that it's everybody else that's the pedophile.

[@miriamschiro1773]

They fail to know the true meaning of neglect. Neglect is not not being around your children 24/7. Neglect is when the kids need u but u ignore them. Seems to me like she gives them attention when they need it so NOT neglect

[@gracelewis6071]

Miriam Schiro Exactly. These children are clearly well bonded to each other, parents, and fully confident and articulate with the interviewer, etc - all signs of an extremely well developed, well nurtured child. I think people see unattached children so often these days they don't know what healthy attachment looks like!!

[@anonymoususer4028]

The problem is that yes kids used to walk around but it is much more dangerous than it used to be

[@scottroetzel2206]

When I was 10, I rode my bike 3 miles to McDonalds because I wanted ice cream

[@emily-et2cz]

"what comes to mind when you see a police car?" "oh no I need 2 hide"

[@istompconservativeass2029]

should have sued the shit out of the school officials... Id look them up today and murder them and their families...

[@maluespitia9617]

emily yeap, great parenting :/ I am sorry, I dont know where this people live, but the world had many dangers and I wouldnt let my children out like that, childrens brains are not fully developed, kids act goofy and do not pay attention to danger, may run out in the street after a ball, someone can abduct them etc. Yes I was a free range kid in a different time where dangers were not as todays. Would never

[@TheArchitectOfDreams]

When I see a police car? Pants up, don't loot!

[@Ninsidhe]

So if children's brains can't handle the world, why are children able to run businesses? To take care of themselves in 3rd world countries with long walks to school and potential risks about? Children can drive tractors, cars, use machinery when shown by an adult how to do so safely and effectively, even in the US in rural areas it's common for kids to be able to competently take care of themselves in sometimes harsh environments. Using your logic, every native kid on the planet would have zero hope of growing up because they're too busy being distracted to pay attention to their environment. It's all nothing but cultural myth, this constant story of the inability of children to be clever and competent.

[@mellyjames5932]

"id look them up today and murder them and their families "You are an example of why kids shouldn't be left outside unsupervised I see no one decided to shed some light on this guy. You are ignoring his disturbing comment, yes its a comment but what kind of person even says a thing like that? News flash he's not the only person who talks or thinks this way. so " free rangers", would you let your kid walk down the street next to a person who threatens to murder families?

[@indiag89]

This is sad, how can a ten year not be able to walk a mile away from home? This makes me so angry. I grew up in the 90s and I remember riding my bike to the gas station with my 9 year old brother when I was 8 years old. It was at least 2 miles away.

[@1Dudette4Ever]

They have a lot of faith in society, don't they? 10 managing a 6 year old? I think it's too young. My brother went to school by himself by age 11, so did I. Many kids in the UK who go to school to and fro in secondary school often have to make the journey by themselves. I used to travel for an hour by myself. But there's no way I would be allowed to basically care for a younger sibling at that age. I understand the whole point about being independent, but seriously the world isn't a forgiving place. Maybe it's my country but especially where I'm growing up, it's dangerous for kids to be walking around by themselves, loads of gangs. Oh well.

[@3twoandunder805]

When I was a kid that was just my childhood I went to the store alone from about 8 I came home when the street light came on

[@rebelicious0103]

I'm all for children being able to play outside without parents hovering around constantly, those kids were probably completely safe (or as safe as they can be) and whoever called the law the 1st time was probably just nosey and needs a life, the problem as I see it is that those parents agreed to not allow the kids to go unsupervised and turned around and did exactly that. If I had the cops and CPS after me I'd do anything and everything to avoid giving them a reason to take my kids away. I really wouldn't care if they said I had to stand on my head to brush my teeth; I'd do it in a drop dead second. Sometimes, even if you're right, you need to pick your battles. I don't think letting kids walk to a park alone is a battle I'd ever pick. I'd rather be happy and live in peace than try to prove a point and risk losing the most important things in my life.

[@mahihowell8433]

Pay attn. It's NOT playing it's the walk of ONE MILE that may co$t an innocent child their life with Pedo bears in FULL FORCE on a public street! Parents need to HOVER over their kids to ensure they're safe yet you made good points!

[@FleetwoodCat]

That's horrible.

[@rudra62]

Do you really think for one second that there are any more pedos around now than there were 20, 30, 50, or 70 years ago, as a percentage of the population? Do you really think that most pedos get the children from grabbing a strange child on a public street? No, that's statistically the least likely way a pedophile will get their children/prey. It's more likely that a family friend, boyfriend of a single mother, the adult supervisor of some children's "wholesome" activity, a neighbor, will gently seduce the child(ren), and do it over several years, and get the child to believe (s)he is doing something wrong, so they won't tell.

[@macycharmin]

Mahi, so you discount the fact that Most pedo's are in 'safe' places such as the clergy at church, a coach, a scout leader, a teacher, a family member and so on? Get real.

[@nicolawildflower7920]

Clearly, it seems they don't care if their kids are taken away... By CPS or a child sex trafficker.

[@culturalobserver8721]

I have read that child sex trafficking in the US went from very rare 30+ years ago, to much more frequent today. It goes without saying that people who sadly “dabble” in that trade are looking for vulnerable kids. I’m sure the couple in the video love their children, but it’s obvious that they are very misguided! Their “free range” parenting could very possibly cause their children to potentially become vulnerable to a sick stranger!! That is the REALITY of our modern society, and to willfully reject that fact is - I’m sorry - irrational and it’s placing one’s child in danger!

[@teresaengland4117]

I understand the parents but this world is so scary now.so dangerous. People are dangerous. I believe there needs to be a Balance.

[@TheDancelover4ever]

Teresa England the world in this country is the safest it's ever been! Reaching these kids' age used to feel like a blessing not something that was supposed to happen. Kids could be burned at the stake like adults were. Kids fell ill, kids worked in factories losing limbs. Kidnappers always existed, but now we have the news. But anyone who does research knows this world is a lot safer for kids now than it ever has been! I mean honestly nowadays we consider it a nature given right to outlive your child. Your child is expected to outlive you. Decades ago most parents would have 2-3 of their children die as infants, toddlers, and kids. And many mothers who just died in childbirth

[@theman9048]

Teresa England actually the country is safer now then ever before

[@teresaengland4117]

Theman that may be true I still think there needs to be a balance like a limited areas they can go

[@theman9048]

Teresa England I agree

[@ruleram1]

The world doesn't stop being dangerous past a certain age.

[@Splashstar216]

Free range parents are the best kinds!! 👌 my parents were super strict & extremely violent. I'll never do that to my kids.

[@fwd105]

I was a free range kid and I'm proud of it, people need to stop being so sensitive. If your kids stay on public streets what's the issue.

[@nicholemiles8847]

fwd105 believe me kids and adults have been killed and kidnapped from public places and parks.

[@celabonfir6287]

I was free range since age of 5 and now I just stay indoors,I was hit by a car and raped .

[@jer1230]

i'm 38, and grew up this way. i walked to and from school, played outside... had dance classes that were across the street and went there too....went to the store that was downstairs from our apartment... would bath myself, make small meals, spent a lot of time with friends... and i'm super responsible and independent today. i had to do a lot on my own because my parents were divorced and i'm an only child, my mom would teach me what to do, as she to work

[@sandralee8855]

The next news footage " OMG help us our children are missing, they only went to the park by THEMSELVES!!!!!...REALLY..THE WORLD IS NOT SAFE NOW...give me a break.

[@nexus9777]

When i was 8 i used to go get the groceries for my family because my dad was working and my mom was pregnant..... im in high school now and i know TEENS that are too afraid to go to the bathroom alone because their parents never let them be alone. Teach your kids independence or they’ll grow into annoying adults

[@stephenebroussard6386]

They make our children walk to school! Force public school on us and do not provide transportation unless you live a mile or more away for elementary and 2 miles or more for middle and high school.

[@saraallison9469]

Stephene Broussard can’t pick your child up?

[@lindacarrillo1922]

Miss True Seman not everyone has the time to pick up their children after or before school

[@saraallison9469]

Stephene Broussard then pay for private school, no one forces public schools

[@maggiesmith2600]

The kids are six and ten ? If they were four and six I can see calling it neglect, but a ten-year-old is perfectly capable of walking a few blocks by himself, and taking care of his sister while he does. When I started first grade, age six, my father walked me from home to school the first day, and then at noon he was waiting outside the school and walked me from the school to my home. When 1 pm came, I was on my own. "Off you go. You know the way. " This was not considered in any way strange or neglectful. Children who are hovered over grow up too timid to do anything by themselves.

[@rmsolympic1]

I like the parents, but I disagree with them: the world is too dangerous, at least right now.

[@jtg3765]

Taught by my older brother of 9 years in an urban/suburban city (in Massachusetts), I used to regularly walk alone thereafter to a corner store for penny candy at 5 to 7 years old, and later to more distant department stores with a same-aged friend at 7-9 years old and sometimes alone. We'd also walk to a similarly distanced public library. We followed the rules parents and schools warned us - look both ways before crossing streets and don't get into cars with strangers, even if they entice with candy or puppies. As a sixth grader (11-12 years), our school sanctioned our selling candy around the neighborhoods to raise money for end-of-year week camp. We were instructed never to enter anyone's house, even if invited, and not to open the cellophane-wrapped box of chocolate mints if the customer wanted to see them (we were told to simply point to the picture on the box), etc. As latch-key kids, my younger brother and I had a babysitter to stay with us after school for a few hours until I was about 11 to 12 years old. One day the babysitter couldn't make it, and her younger sister 13 years old (also a friend of mine) came to watch us. As I thought this to be rather intolerable, my parents then decided that I could take over the babysitter watch at 12-13 years old with my brother 4 years younger than me. A great perk was that the babysitter's salary was immediately transferred over to me as my allowance, which was a whopping $7/week at the time. And, all this was in the midst of a time when I recall in elementary school that the next-door neighbor boy was kidnapped, as was rumored, from a family who lauded themselves as being richer than most (but more probably in much secret debt) - and somehow the boy was returned unharmed. Yet, life went on and parental policies did not change.

[@geordielassie1]

I can't believe people in the comments saying well I was raised this way, more then likely yes you were but the world was a different place back then, I was the same I used to go all over with my friends but I wouldn't dream of letting my kids do what I did, just look at the news or watch an episode of to catch a predator! I'd rather be over protective and have safe kids than letting them go wherever they like on their own and suffer the rest of my life with guilt because someone abducts and murders them!

[@baby28girl]

Free range parenting ? Dafuq is that 😂 This is just living a normal life

[@jessicarenae5107]

*Im one of those overly cautious parents, and I've always been that way because my son was a very sick baby and also, the world these days. ..well it is scary! My son is now getting bigger and I do regret a lot and it's hitting me now because my son needs to be more responsible in many ways, and it's now harder teeing to work on it, but as much as kids do need freedom and she's right about that, but then again, there are so many crazy ppl in the world today as well! When i was young in the 80s, it was very different! These days, we need to look out for the safety of our kids and teach them precautions, but also teach them to be more independence and responsibilities! My child is very smart, and very well behaved with s heart of gold but because I chose the easy route of doing most things for him, I'm paying for it lol, so please yall, send prayers lol!*

[@stacyray5029]

Jessa Nae The big difference between now and then is social media/news coverage. We had almost zero previously compared to the present. Just as much bad stuff happened in the past as the present we just didn't hear about it like to we do today. We are constantly being bombarded with negative images of every aspect really. So I can definitely see where the fear comes from.

[@jessicarenae5107]

stacy ray ,yep! And as much as its horrible to hear about, I think ppl get way to many ideas from things they hear and see too! It's so much different these days it's sad! And a huge reason that I've always basically babied and have been so cautious with my child, i should have mentioned before, he was born at 23 weeks gestation and only 1lb 5oz, so the first 6 years of his life he was a very sick kiddo, so i think there's a lot of fear of mine because of that! But he has adhd,which makes it really hard for him to make friends because it confuses kids and I just try to make him feel as loved and confident as possible!

[@cawheeler27]

I think one of the points they were making is that things aren't worse today. The data shows that to be the case. Crime in general is way down, about the lowest ever recorded. Crimes against children, specifically, are way down. It is far safer to let your kids roam today than it was in the 1950s.

[@worsethanjoerogan8061]

Violent crime was much, much worse in the 1980s than it is today. This perception that modern times are more dangerous is entirely false. It has never been safer.

[@kt-zn4yu]

Jessa Nae the world today is statistically much safer than it was when you were a kid in the 80’s lol the only reason so many ppl think the world is becoming more unsafe is bc social media and news coverage nowadays is so widespread. abductions and violent crimes have gone down drastically since you were a child, yet parents your age think their kids are in more danger than they were for some reason. the media and our government have y’all thinking the world is total anarchy when in fact we’re the safest we’ve ever been.

[@menopassini9348]

As kids we rode our bikes all over and even took the train to Chicago 30 miles away. You never see kids unaccompanied in my home town anymore, except to walk home from school.