to let DD (11) go swimming on her own?

[CrabbyBlossomBottom]

Local swimming pool at leisure centre ten minutes walk away. She's been lots of times before with a friend. I've just let her go alone for the first time. There are lifeguards, obviously.

She's an ok swimmer but not brilliant (just got her Seal Level 4 cert). She's pretty sensible.

Would you?

yes totally

I would in a pool with lifeguards.

Why wouldn't you?

Good thanks, just had a moment of doubt imagining what my mum would say.

She's just called to say that lane swimming isn't open until 13:40 so she's going to 'hang out' in the park until then. I'm less happy about that.

DS went swimming with his mate at the pool round the corner from nearly 8. He was a strong swimmer and they have lifeguards employed to keep an eye. I was going with friends at that age too.

Hanging out in the park in the morning is OK too. I wouldn't want an 11 year old hanging out in the park in the evening though!

Swimming pool of course. Lake/river/sea no way.

why wouldn't you?

In case she hits her head on the side and drowns swiftly and silently whilst the lifeguard is looking the other way admiring some babe in a bikini. Unlikely but possible in the dark recesses of my deepest fears.

Park will be full of older kids from local secondary, eating lunch and smoking fags.

she will be one of those very soon

Lane swimming from 12:40, not 13:40. Not so bad.

Nigella