To let my 10 year old go to the park

[Squigglewigglediggle]

My 10 year old DS is asking to go to the park with a friend (also 10). The park is literally the road behind our house (1-2 minute walk) but not visible from where we live, he would have to cross one small, quiet road to get there and is in a generally safe residential neighborhood, both boys are high energy but (mostly)sensible.

I keep thinking of my childhood and how I would be out playing with friends from much younger and leaning towards it being ok, but he's my eldest and it would be the first time he been "unsupervised" and part of me worries. What's the consensus, is it too young or is this a good way for him to start gaining a little independence ( he will be walking to and from high school next year).

I would definitely allow this at 10

My kids both started going to the park on their own with a friend(s) from the Easter of year 5. If there’s not a major road to cross and the park isn't dodgy then I think that would be fine.

It really does help them to become more independent.

I have started saying that DS9 can do this. He doesn't want to yet though.

I think 10 is fine for this. You need to start transitioning ready for secondary school.

The 9 and 10 year olds in our village go to the park alone (granted we are in a very quiet rural village). They also cycle around the area.

At 11 they have to get the bus to secondary alone.

I’d let them at 10 but maybe with a time agreed to come home and check in with you before going out again.

I think it's a great opportunity for him to start learning some independence. He is a good age to handle the location and scenario you have described.

Ahhh fantastic! This was exactly what I was hoping to hear. I was fairly sure it seemed low risk and a good opportunity for him. I've told him he can go and he's jumping around with a big smile on his face.

Thank you for helping me cut the apron strings - I was worried I'd be told I was being totally irresponsible!

At 11 they are going to be walking to and from school by themselves right?

So why would you not trust them to be in the park two minutes from your house?

You are totally right! I think I always just second guess myself!

He's on his way and seems very pleased with himself!

There is nothing wrong at all with checking your thoughts.
Having a chat about things like this is human nature.
Hope your lad has a great time.

Is there a specific reason you're hesitant to trust your son? Imo, there's no reason not to trust your 10-year-old. The park isn't far away, and going out with friends to play is completely normal.

It's fine. Hope he enjoys himself!

I would occasionally wander over to make sure they're not up to anything they shouldn't be.