I know I’ve recently written a post about safety and how kids get into trouble because they’re so curious about detergents and spray bottles. I still do think we should be careful about this stuff and make sure we do keep it out of reach of children. But here’s the thing: taking necessary precautions is our duty as parents. Going over the top and perhaps even transferring some of our fears to our kids is something totally different.
I’ve noticed this trend some time ago. It’s not just mommies who are so afraid that something’s going to happen to their child – it’s the society in general. We have become more fearful and alert – even in situations over which we have absolutely 0 control. It’s not entirely our fault and I don’t want to lay all the blame on the media. It’s true that perhaps our life has become more dangerous, but I am alarmed (again, a sign of overall anxiety) that we let worry transform into perpetual watchfulness over our kids.
I was reminded of this reading an article on BBC News ,which pretty much mirrors my sentiment. Let’s take the story of a British couple from London who were approached by social services because “they let their children cycle unsupervised to school”. All these guys wanted was a little bit of freedom for their kids and the kind of childhood that they themselves used to enjoy. What is more, it’s good exercise that may help reduce the risk of a few other modern-day threats to health – obesity and stress.
A recent study conducted by a research team of the University of Buffalo shows that a simple morning walk to school “can reduce stress reactivity in children during the school day”. Doctors highly recommend this kind of exercise. Safety policies beg to differ.
Another example – this time with a lot less backing from parents – is the story with the NYC columnist who made the mistake of writing that she had actually deliberately left her 9 y.o. son in Manhattan alone and let him get back home by public transportation. He was thrilled with the experience. Shocked readers – not so much.
I can’t say I’d support this extreme adventure myself, but the idea that we should cut our kids some slack and let them have a bit of experience is something I cheer for. Maybe let them take that short walk to school, or help in the kitchen, or even let them fall off their first bike and learn through experience. Maybe letting our children off the leash for once is not that bad of an idea…