The way things change.

Perhaps you are overreacting, I don't think it would hurt them to play out in your backyard? I mean you can see them from the window, so I believe you should let them play. Plus, if you keep on saying things like "it's not too safe outside" you are going to make your kids fear going outside or traveling. They are going to have to eventually do some of that on their own, so you could allow them to play in the yard. Perhaps not playing outside of the yard, but then that is up to you. I think you are doing a good job because you are concerned, but remember don't be so concerned that you don't let them play :) Pablo

My daughter is 10 and we live in the country- with 5 acres of land- most of it out back and on the sides- I let my daughter play outside by herself only in my direct sight- Like say I'm washing dishes-- or if my sig. other is out there- It's sad I know- If she has a friend up I will let them play outside together- I figure they are better off together than by themselves. I was like you- I would be outside all day and then I knew what time to be home for the night- Heck we played outside hide and seek all the time in the dark growing up with the neighbor hood kids. Now I'm outside with my daughter and her friends playing. You can never be too safe- there are a bunch of sickos out there- I don't have a fear of dry-by shootings- but kidnappings-- There are so many pervs out there now!

Unfortunately, you are doing the right thing. This wold gets crazier by the day and it takes a good parent like you to keep a child safe. We shouldn't have to kee such a close eye on a child in our own yard or area, but we do. I commend you for being aware and hope that some day things will change back, but I doubt it !

I don't think you are overreacting. But of course this is coming from a first time mom who is paranoid about the same things lol. Of course my daughter is not old enough to play outside by herself anyways but even if she was I'm not sure I would let her. We live in apartments and I worry about the traffic we get through the apartments. I see kids playing outside all the time without their parents so maybe it's safer then I may think. But I just couldn't imagine just setting my daughter loose like that.

When my kids were little they were only allowed to play in my fenced in backyard. The only time they could play out front is if I put my lawn chair out in the yard with them and kept my eye on them. This is the world we live in now. It's not like it was when we were kids and I accept that. I think that adding some caution to their lives will make them grow up and realize that they themselves also have to be cautious as well and that's a good thing.