> In 1971, 80% of 7-8 year olds travelled to school independently. By 1990, it was 9%.
I feel for these kids. That time finding my own way home as a child was precious to me. It was my time. I was responsible for myself. I imagine you don't get a lot of that sort of time as a young child anymore. It's incredibly valuable - an opportunity to take and learn about risks (groups of young kids are actually really good at looking out for each other). A little chance each day to discover a bit of what the real world is about. A chance to be a member of your community on your own terms (dropping into shops along the way, putting a few coins in the arcade machine, greeting people you'd see regularly, etc).
I wonder about this a lot. I've been to small communities where children are still free to roam outside, with minimal to no adult supervision. It always seemed nice. Now that I have a toddler, it seems like a crime not to have it
I think America should remember the concept of a "playground"...
> In 1971, 80% of 7-8 year olds travelled to school independently. By 1990, it was 9%.
I feel for these kids. That time finding my own way home as a child was precious to me. It was my time. I was responsible for myself. I imagine you don't get a lot of that sort of time as a young child anymore. It's incredibly valuable - an opportunity to take and learn about risks (groups of young kids are actually really good at looking out for each other). A little chance each day to discover a bit of what the real world is about. A chance to be a member of your community on your own terms (dropping into shops along the way, putting a few coins in the arcade machine, greeting people you'd see regularly, etc).
I wonder about this a lot. I've been to small communities where children are still free to roam outside, with minimal to no adult supervision. It always seemed nice. Now that I have a toddler, it seems like a crime not to have it