The United States has come to face many awakening-tragedies these past years, but when it comes to the neglect-fatalities of kids left unsupervised around drugs, loaded guns, and even parked cars the number is over 1,000. It’s a sad issue because we, as adults, don’t generally give guidance about what neglect really is, so we leave it to our government agencies to interpret what neglect is.
Through trial and error, changes are being made today, but will they help?
On Tuesday, Utah became the first state in the US to have a “free-range” parenting law, changing the state’s definition of neglect to allow children of “sufficient age and maturity” to engage in independent activities like walking to and from school. This law is believed to be the first of its kind in the nation, which prevents parents from being prosecuted under child-neglect statutes for simply allowing their kids- with good judgement- to do things alone. Again, this is all based on the notion the children are cared for and are “of sufficient age and maturity” … but when in a child’s (not young adult’s) life can that interpretation be considered official?
It’s tricky, and most of all, when it comes to parenting there is a split between some who believe a childhood should resemble their own wild youths, and others who believe firmly it is the parent’s responsibility to ensure a child’s growth and safety. Yet, some say that line falls somewhere in between. Is the Free-Range Parenting Law that in-between or just another stepping stone in children’s rights in the U.S.? Share your thoughts on your media page and spread the news!