I’m a Wanna-Be Free Range Parent

I’m a wanna be free range parent.

I love the idea of kids running amok without a care in the world. I love the idea of kids riding bikes with no destination in sight. The feeling of sweet freedom and independence blowing through their hair.

But my babies carry a piece of my heart with them when they’re out of my sight.

And sadly, when my heart walks out the safety of my sight, news headlines cloud my thoughts.

My 7 year old practices lock down drills every few months in Elementary school. The thought of those precious babies, huddled together in the dark of a bathroom, breaks my heart. The worst part is that these young ones know the reason behind these practice drills.

I’d love to be a free range parent.

I’d love for my kids to be able to spend their days running freely around down the streets, climbing trees and playing tag. All without me hovering down their neck.

And I know they’d love that too.

But as much as I’d love to be a free range parent, my fears convince me otherwise.

I’d love to be a free range parent, but instead, I’ll keep them in my bubble as long as possible.

Originally published on www.raisinghumblehumans.com