I LOVE to read! And parenting is one of my passions as well as what my degree is in. I have a degree in Child Development and Family Studies from The University of Arizona. But besides the academic credentials, I've been married for 10 years this year and have 4 kids ages 1, 3, 6 and 8. I hope this qualifies me to lend my professional and experiential "opinion".
So, that being said, I will be doing some more book reviews and recommendations. So this week here it is.
Free Range Kids
by Lenore Skenazy
The author was labelled, "America's Worst Mom," by TV and news critics for letting her 9 year old son ride the subway in New York City alone with out even a cell phone! Only some change for a phone call if needed. They spent time studying subway maps, she judged her sons maturity and they live and ride the subway every day. Her son was fine and she goes on to write this book about the fear that is affecting parenting today.
Backed up with statistics, she defends herself and makes the case that today is safer than ever. We should let the kids play outside alone, ride their bikes to the store and even ride the subway alone. I have to say, reading this book was so refreshing, her NY humor is snarky, which makes me laugh. She makes fun of those parents that buy their kids crawling knee pads. Like God didn't make babies to rough up their knees on our hardwood floors.
What strikes me the most with the fear in most parents today is how unfounded it is. The statistics should be enough to make us feel better. I often find myself telling friends and moms at the park, "Well what were we doing at their age?" They usually pause and say, "Yah, your right." Even though their tone says they aren't buying it. Let's remember our kids need experiences and freedom to fall from trees.
For those of you who are finding it hard to let your kids ride their bikes around the block or play outside alone, I highly recommend this book!
