In 2025, the challenges of granting children independence intensified for free-range parents, culminating in arrests, investigations, and stringent regulations. A Harris Poll revealed that a significant number of children have never experienced unaccompanied outings, with 71% having never used a sharp knife, suggesting an overprotective parenting trend. Additionally, 50% of parents feared abduction when kids played unsupervised, despite the negligible risk. New school rules in Michigan limited children’s autonomy, enforcing adult supervision even for short walks home. Tragic incidents, like the case in North Carolina where parents faced severe legal consequences after a child’s accident, highlighted the societal panic around childhood independence. Meanwhile, despite fears of human trafficking, statistical realities remain overlooked. Fortunately, advocacy efforts led to the passage of Reasonable Childhood Independence laws in three states, promoting a shift towards granting kids more freedom. Let Grow aims to normalize and legalize independent childhood experiences, fostering engagement with the world beyond screens.
Source link
Share
Read more