My child's been invited to go far away for a day ....... what should I do ??

[katsh]

Ds9 has been invited to go with a friend on a birthday treat which involves 2 1/2 hrs of motorway driving to an attraction - a few hours there and then driving home again for an overnight stay. I am really hesitant about letting him go - seems a long way to travel, with a parent about whose driving ability I know nothing. He really wants to go and is one of only 2 who have been asked. What do you think?

[retiredgoth2]

I think you say 'have a great time' and give him a fiver to spend in the shop.

[BonsoirAnna]

He's 9 and wants to go? Let him - he'll have a great time.

[CompareTheMeerkat]

I'd definitely let him go, if I had a 9 year old.

[shinyshoes]

I'd let him go, have a night to yourself, they don't come around often for me.

I'm sure he'll be fine, enjoy

[ingles2]

I'd let him go.
In fact, last year I took ds2 and his friend to Legoland for his birthday about 2 hours away. He was 7.
I'm sure the parent would be extra careful driving as she has a group of children in the car. But if you're nervous, why don't you mention it to her?
I texted the mother when we arrived and to let her know when we were setting off home. I'm sure that won't be a problem.

[meltedmarsbars]

Echo all of the above...

[reikizen]

Oh god yes, he's 9! He has to be allowed to have non-parent time and you have to be allowed to have non-child time! I think it's okay to say you want a text to know they arrived safely too.

[solowitch]

I'd be hesitant too...

[katsh]

Thanks all. I'm sorry was so distracted by DS whilst typing that I inadvertently changed my 9 yr old's gender - she is most definitely my DD ! I have allowed my DD time away before - she's flown unaccompanied since she was 5 - I don't know what is making me so unsure about this particular trip. The night without her isn't such a draw as I've 2 others who will still be with me! Good suggestion to ask for a text on arrival if you don't think that that sounds a bit over protective.

[piscesmoon]

Asking for a text would be fine-not letting her go would be over protective.

[katsh]

riven you are giving me pause for thought! I guess every next time they take a new step in the direction of independence, which is of course where we want to get to, it's a little bit tough. I think you are all right and I shall let her go. Thank you.