When to Let Daughter Ride Bike to the Park

We battle with the same issue. My son is 7 and his friends have been able to explore the entire neighborhood since age 4-5. I just explain to our son that every family has their own rules and that we don't allow our young children away from the home unsupervised. I think the important thing is to follow your gut and not give in just because her friends are able to.

I personally think 8 is still too young to be 4 to 5 blocks away unsupervised. Maybe down the block or around the corner but not 4-5 blocks away.

I have issues even allowing our 7 and 5 year olds out front in our cul-de-sac unsupervised. Do you allow your daughters in the cul-de-sac unsupervised? My husband or I are always out there with them. If we're not up to being outside, they're in the house or in the fenced back yard.

I also see kids in my neighboorhood riding their bikes and walking around with other kids unsupervised at 4/5 years old and I think that's crazy.

I'm one of those people that worries for my kids.
I'm always worried about accidents or even worst some psycho driving by kidnapping the kids or sexual predators etc. There are a lot of bad people out there, just look around at all those missing children posters everywhere. I think it's better to be safe then sorry.

They are always outside with me or my husband and if we're not out there then they can't be out by themselves. My older kids are 6 & 3, so they are still young, but it will still be a while before I would let them go on their own.

I have 8 and 10 year old boys. They have been riding their bikes to the park by themselves for over 2 years. We live about 5 blocks away and there are no streets to cross only a bike trail to ride on. They love the independence it gives them. I do go check on them if they are gone to long, but usually they have to check in every hour. 2 months ago I gave my 10 year old a cell phone and a little more freedom. He is allowed to ride thru the whole subdivision if I know where he is going. My 8 year old is not allowed to do this without the 10 yo.

I suggest giving it a trial run. Let her ride to the park with her friends and then show up about 30 minutes after with her younger sister so that she can play. This will give you a chance to see what they are doing and how they are conducting themselves. If it goes well tell her that she can do it again but has to check in every hour.

Good Luck!

It also depends on your neighborhood. None of the kids on our block ride off the block unsupervised until middle school (11 years old). We have no sidewalks and no park to ride to so they are just on the street with the cars. We are in a quiet subdivision, but cars still go way too fast. It's always harder with the oldest but don't be afraid to stick to what you believe. I think the previous mom has a good point about letting her try it and showing up in half an hour, but trust yourself. If it doesn't feel safe, don't do it.