You might have heard quite a lot about free-range parenting by now. It is a style of parenting that focuses on limited supervision based on kids’ age and development in order to give them more independence and build their confidence. Just like any parenting style, free-range parenting has its pros and cons. Check them out below.
Pro: Kids Are More Independent and Confident
The key point of free-range parenting is to help kids be more independent and confident. The idea is to prompt them to learn from their mistakes and prompt them to improve their problem-solving skills, giving them valuable lessons and helping them later in life.
Con: Kids Are More at Risk
Kids don’t have the means to defend themselves from harm or enough understanding of the world to avoid danger. With free-range parenting, parents can put their kids at more risk, which could lead to unwanted consequences.
Pro: Kids Are More Social and Active
Free-range parenting calls for kids to freely engage in all sorts of outdoor activities like exploring, climbing, running, and jumping. Additionally, it encourages making contact and playing with other kids. This type of approach allows kids to be more social and active.
Con: It is Unsuitable for Modern Society and Possibly Against the Law
The modern society is largely unsuitable for free-range parenting. Nowadays, the community spirit seems to be waning, and neighbors don’t know each other well, which makes it less likely for someone to step in if your kid encounters trouble. Additionally, in some states, the free-range parenting approach might be against the law and viewed as child neglect.