Oh dear, oh dear. Is this what some petty parents have become? I am referring to the item on Today programme on Radio 4 this morning about the mum who allows her 7 yr old to cross a quiet(not the M1!) road and catch the bus to school. Mum has 2 younger children. The programme received qiute a response from listeners who agreed with mum.It was pointed out that in sweden 5 yr olds are expected to go to school unaccompanied by parents and if they do, this is seen as over protective.My 9 yr old has been taught to learn about risk and potential dangers since the age of 7 and he is allowed to go cycling to the nearest park on his own. He has his mobile and to be honest my biggest squabble with him is making him wear his helmet. Far more important! I am a GP,s daughter and Iam a staff nurse and believe me one would not wish to experience the head injuries that my dad and and I have treated over the years through not wearing cycle helmets. Let,s get our priorities right Mum,s!P.S Shame on you Lincolnshire County Council for even thinking of writing to the 7 yr old,s mum!!! They apparently have apologised for the strong worded letter!