“And part of that is the very non data-driven notion that, unlike a plane crash or a deadly illness, a parent can drive themselves insane thinking: “If only I had gone with her to get the pizza. If only I had put the talk show on pause, if only I had waited to do the laundry, if only . . . “ “
“If only I allowed my kids to be self-reliant and strong instead of fearful little wusses who don’t want to do anything without their parents or government’s guiding arm.”
Exactly. Kids are not beyond being taught not to let a stranger approach them, not to approach a stranger, etc. I knew when I was a kid not to talk to people I didn’t know. I remember a few times people made me uncomfortable, so I just stayed away from them. Kids will never ever learn to be self sufficient or how to take care of themselves if they are never given the chance.