[West Ender]

It's difficult with a child of 7. At that age I could let my children play out, in the 70s, and I knew they might go into the homes of friends but they had boundaries. If they wanted to go further than our street they had to tell me first. I think 6 is a bit young to give much freedom. My granddaughter is 6 next week and only goes to friends' houses, prearranged, to play. Her mum anticipates her playing out on her bike next summer - but only near the house and with friends of the same age. I don't believe in wrapping them up in cotton wool but common sense says you don't let them go into the homes of people you don't know. Don't ever be influenced by what others do, you know best.