When kids are around 9 or 10 years old is when parents start feeling comfortable in giving their kids a little more freedom. That's the age when I was outside playing all day, rarely checking in at home. Through talking with "Play Outdoors" bloggers, parents, and hearing a Waldorf educator speak this week -- I found this age almost universally gives parents the urge to let go a little. But not too much! It's also the same week that one of my old quotes popped up in a Rich Louv blog about "Hummingbird Parents." He talks about 7 Action Parents Can Take to Reduce Risk, But Still Get Their Kids Outside.
It's the feeling of freedom when the kids turn their back on you and your influence has disappeared from their vision. You know? That far away feeling that they can try things out or pretend something without fear of embarrassment or adult tampering with their play. Or it's just forgetting for a moment or an afternoon that someone is watching your every move (even if you still are). Some parents let their kids have lots more leeway in big backyards or armed with walkie-talkies and the buddy system in their neighborhood. It's up to each individual family and their individual kids to make a decision about acceptable risk and comfort levels.
But WHERE can you do this in Orange County?
These Orange County places and parks allow room to roam and vantage points to see the kids, even when they go off exploring.
Mason Regional Park in Irvine
Canyon View Park in Aliso Viejo
Turtle Rock Community Park in Irvine
Carbon Canyon Regional Park in Brea
Any beach
Beaches are the best for the kids forgetting you are there! Once they start building a sandcastle - or face the ocean to play in the waves - they are in their own little world without you.
Where do you go to give your child space and freedom? Leave a note in the comments so we can build a community library of PLACES!
