Am I Crazy?

As I sit here, windows open, letting the spring breeze air out the house, I hear kids outside. They are riding bikes, running around, yelling and playing, alone. Most of the kids range from 5-10.

The same as my kids.

I know many moons ago, when I was a kid this was common. Parents opened their doors and let kids run free until dinner time. But the world is not the same. There are TWO sex offenders in our little neighborhood. There are 6 different entrances/exits for this area. Not to mention, my street is where the DMV does driving tests.

I don't let my kids play in the front yard without an adult. I know I NEED to be more concerned than most, Noah's autism can make him unpredictable. But I find it unsettling that there is no one watching these kids.

The other night hubby was driving home about 8:30 pm and as we turned the corner four kids came darting out into the road, in the damn dark, hubby slammed on the brakes hard enough we all flung forward and honked the horn. There were a few parents in their garage and not a single one looked up.

Kids need to play outside, they need to run, and they need freedom. But when is an appropriate age to roam a neighborhood free? I am over protective and I know it. Do you let your kids play alone? Or do you monitor them at all times?