Episode 10 - ”Parenting Free Range Kids”

This episode topic is lifted from the news as Chip and Britt talk about the recent legislation passed by Utah law makers legalizing so called Free-range parenting. The idea here is that parents who give their kids the freedom and independance to play outside, walk to school, ride their bike, etc. without constant parental supervision will not be subjected to investigation and possible prosicution by child-welfare authorities.

Critics of this law say letting kids strike out on their own can expose them to serious dangers, from criminals to cars. They agree with the legal action and investigation of parents like the Maryland couple who allowed their 10- and 6-year-old children to walk home alone from a park in 2015. But lawmakers and policy groups in Utah and several other states say the protective pendulum has swung too far, and it's time to tell parents who raise their children in a healthy environment can grant them more freedom.

Mentioned in this episode:

Free-range Parenting Law - Article

Free Range Kids Movement Website