Crazy, or have things just changed?

[Ozziegirly]

There is an advert on TV here at the moment about crossing the road which says that children up to the age of 10 should have their hand held by an adult when they cross the road.

The first time I saw it DH and I said we couldn't believe that was right - at 10 we were both going to school by ourselves (well, at 7 actually) and "playing out" with friends in the holidays, going on bikes etc - and I wouldn't have dreamed of having to hold my mum's hand when I crossed the road.

So, is this advert completely bonkers or have things changed this much in 22 years.

I am pregnant at the moment and don't know how I will cope with this general cotton wooling of children when mine is a bit older (or will I think it's normal?)

Bonkers I think. I have a just turned 11 year old and a 9 year old and I haven't held their hands to cross the road for years. Children have less and less freedom as they grow up, and then really struggle with the transition into adulthood. I think that it is very unhealthy.

Well that's reassuring. I am a Girl Guide leader of a group of 11+ girls and I can't imagine any of them needing help crossing the road only a year ago.

it is mad! Children have to learn gradually, and this is not the way! Defo hold a pre-schooler's hand - or I hold on to the wrist of wriggly ones - but TEACH the older ones. And they should certainly be crossing roads safely before 10.

10??? Goodness.......I was riding my bike to school on my own by the time I was 7 or 8 and was out playing with friends on my own after school too! I can see how roads are busier these days but you still cross a road in the same way don't you??!