A simple question to our residents: When did you start walking to school without adult supervision, and what is the right age for children to do the same today?

For many, the answer depended less on age and more on circumstances, including distance, safety and whether children were walking with friends or neighbours.

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One resident, @saphiaayesha, said their children began walking at nine and ten years old, but only because the school was extremely close.
“Everyone’s circumstance different,” she explained. “Mine started walking together at 9 and 10 years old because everyone walked the same way to school so they were with neighbours etc. BUT the school was across the road literally — if it wasn’t, there’s no way they’re getting on buses, alleyways, missions etc.”

Others said they started walking to school much earlier themselves but feel differently as parents now.
Resident @travisjayent joked: “When they drive… not interested mate. I was walking to school at 7 or 8 I think… now my son is 7, I think parents were just mad.”

Another resident, @tash_amor, said she started gaining independence in primary school, but it was gradual.
“I had friends that lived on my road… so I was year 4 and they were year 5 and 6. But when the older one went secondary school and I was in year 5, I didn’t always walk with someone in year 6… I never said anything to my mum,” she admitted.
“I think year 5 in the spring time I would start small independence for going to school. Then year 6 she can do both. I say this now… let’s see when the time comes.”

Some residents took a more cautious stance, arguing that children should never walk completely alone if possible. Parenting expert and famous 'Super Nanny' Jo Frost chimed into the comment section and said age is not the most important factor.

“You don’t let them walk alone. They are better in groups or with another person if ever possible,” she said. “It’s not about age, it’s about their emotional age. Most children are emotionally immature — they can’t even do simple chores at home but you want them to manage the decisions of street smarts when outside.”

Others reflected on how much times may have changed. Resident @terrellworksjr said he was travelling independently from year 3, while another commenter @cosimajb joked: “In this UK? The correct answer is 30.”

So residents, what do you think is the right age for children to start walking to school alone?

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