It’s been in the news lately. How young is too young for a child to be at a park, or walking about town – alone?

Most recently, a Maryland family found themselves under investigation for allowing their children, ages 10 and 6, to do just that.

We live in a small town, 2 blocks off our main street, 3 blocks from a local church, and 5 blocks from the library. At ages 12 and 8, my children would walk to the local coffee shop – alone. At 9 my son would ride his bike to the library – alone. Now, at 10, he walks to the local church – at times with a friend, also 10, and most recently, alone.

A few Sunday’s back, my husband was guest preaching at a local church a few blocks from our house.  I was booked to speak about fitness at a local Bridal Fair and could not attend. My daughter was swamped with a science project, a paper, and studying for a few tests. We gave her permission to remain home from church that morning. (Yes, sometimes a Pastor’s kid needs a Sunday off.)  My son, wanted to see his Dad preach. Rather than heading in super early with my husband, he asked if he could just walk over to the church in time for the service.

We didn’t hesitate – of course! We told him what time the service started, suggested what time he start walking, and left it at that.

He walked himself to church that morning.

I think back to my childhood. By age 10 I was riding my bike to the local pool and walking several blocks to play with friends who lived on the other side of our subdivision.

What has changed?

The “times”?

The world?

Our fear?

Does it make me slightly nervous to let my kids walk alone?

You better believe it.

Do I still allow it?

You better believe it.

I read the news. I am not consumed by it.  I am aware of atrocities, and don’t naively believe my small town to be immune from danger. I have a healthy concern for my children, without stunting their growth.

I believe my kids need to learn responsibility, independence, and how to problem solve and make decisions. This is just one of many ways to do so.

Is there a right or best age when kids can walk the neighborhood by themselves?