Would you let a just-turned-12-YO walk over a mile to a friend's house alone?
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Anonymous
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DS is wanting more freedom. He has plans with a friend later in the week and wants to walk there himself. It is probably about a mile and a quarter or so away, and it involves crossing two major intersections. I am very reluctant, but then I think perhaps I'm being overprotective and need a reality check. Thoughts? TIA.
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Anonymous
| Yes |
Anonymous
| Not by himself. |
Anonymous
| Yes. |
Anonymous
| The distance doesn't bother me. My kids walk that far to friends' houses and to the pool. It's whether the area is safe. I think mine was 13 when he had reason to cross major intersections. |
Anonymous
| It really depends on the kid. Some kids can handle this easy peasy. Others, not so much. |
Anonymous
| No unless it is in a safe, busy area with lots of people like a downtown area. |
Anonymous
| OP here--the area is safe but has a lot of traffic. He knows the way very very well and has been there many times. |
Anonymous
| I agree it depends on the kid. I think most kids that age should be fine. |
Anonymous
| I guess I shouldn't be surprised this is even a question, but here I sit, shocked. My nine year old walks that far to school. |
Anonymous
| The distance doesn't bother me. What I'm worried about is somebody in a car running him over. Is he an experienced pedestrian? |
Anonymous
| Nope |
Anonymous
Does your nine-year-old cross any major intersections? |
Anonymous
| Does your child have a phone? I'd be most concerned about being distracted on the phone crossing intersections. If he understands how to be a good pedestrian, then he'll be fine. If he's prone to phone distractions, then probably not a good idea. |
Anonymous
| No, basically 11 and can't see my ten year old walking that far in one year! Again if you kid is super mature, sure thing. Not my child though. |