The Meitiv family, known for their free-range parenting style, continues to spark discussions after several run-ins with Child Protective Services and local law enforcement for allowing their children to roam their Maryland neighborhood independently. Until recently, I empathized with the Meitivs, feeling sympathy for their independent kids and believing they were being unfairly scrutinized by overzealous neighbors.
However, one neighbor, Sarah Collins, sheds new light on the situation. She expresses frustration at being labeled a meddlesome neighbor, insisting that their community isn’t teeming with “snitches” lurking around to report kids enjoying their freedom. “There aren’t any gangs of busybodies stalking free-range kids in our neighborhood,” she points out.
From what I gather, the Meitiv children are generally well-behaved and normal. Although Sarah doesn’t know them personally, she consulted with a dozen parents who do. They recounted incidents on the playground that necessitated parental involvement, truck drivers who had to slam on brakes to avoid hitting the children crossing the street carelessly, and a moment when the kids were escorted through the crowd at the local Folk Festival because they lost track of their parents.
Sarah argues that free-range parenting inadvertently invites the intervention of other adults. Even if the Meitivs intend to foster independence, they must acknowledge that their parenting choices impact those around them. For instance, the individual who called 911 upon seeing the kids walking alone was merely a stranger out with his dog; he didn’t approach them directly out of concern for frightening them. Thus, even if the Meitivs want to raise free-spirited kids, they might be unwittingly involving others in their parenting philosophy.
I understand their intentions well. My children are just a year older than the Meitivs’. My son started middle school last September, which prompted us to get him a cell phone and let him explore our neighborhood solo for the first time.
Last Sunday, my kids expressed a desire to attend a play at the local high school on their own. It’s roughly a 15-minute walk, or about 10 minutes for an adult. After some back and forth, we consented, ensuring they understood who was in charge, the responsibilities that came with it, and the need for good behavior. The outing was a success, and they relished their newfound independence—albeit with some parameters. While I remember racing around the neighborhood as a child, I don’t feel the need to recreate my youth. Instead, I focus on what feels right for us. I didn’t have a cell phone back then, but I appreciate that my son does, as it gives me peace of mind when I grant him some freedom.
That said, if he were ever in trouble, I would want neighbors to step in. If my son were ever picked up by the police or Child Protective Services, I would definitely need to reassess my approach to parenting. It can’t be easy for those kids to face such scrutiny and know that their family is making headlines. I can’t imagine they’ll keep sending them out without expecting some repercussions.
As one neighbor aptly asked, “What should you do when you see two kids alone in a parking lot? Just ignore it? What’s the right response?” Perhaps the Meitivs should take a moment to consider the perspectives of those around them rather than expecting everyone to understand their stance.
For more insights on parenting and related topics, check out our other blog posts, including this one on home insemination. Additionally, if you’re interested in fertility resources, visit Make a Mom, where you can find valuable information. And for comprehensive details on pregnancy, you can explore this excellent resource.
Summary:
The Meitiv family’s free-range parenting approach has raised eyebrows and sparked debate in their Maryland neighborhood, with neighbors expressing concerns about the children’s safety and well-being. While the Meitivs aim to cultivate independence, their choices inadvertently involve the community, prompting a need for understanding and dialogue.