Think 12 year olds shouldn't be allowed to hang around town for more than a couple of hours..?

[FluffySlipperSocks]

My ds aged 12 (soon to be 13) has gone into town with his friends this afternoon. I've said 2 1/2 hours and I'll pick him up. I think that's fair. He doesn't! Said his friends are allowed as long as they like. My gut feeling is that I don't like to encourage aimless hanging around but as always the mum guilt sets in!! Would like some honest opinions please. Thanks all

I guess it depends on what they're doing. My 11 year old goes into "town" all day but that just involves hanging around the park, going to the woods and getting food. As hard as it is, until she gives me reason to not trust her, I'm trying to leave her to it! She's having a great summer

As sparepantsandtoothbrush. My 11 year old is doing similar. If she was in the house, she'd be on her phone and fed up. They go between the park, McDonald's, Starbucks, shops.