Freedom or Stupidity???

I have a dilemma and I don't know what to do. 

Beansy is a few months shy of 8 (that amazes me in itself that I have a nearly 8 year old!) and for the last few weeks has been badgering me to let him walk to the corner shop on his own.

It is 50m away, no roads to cross and we know everyone on the street and in in the shop.  However, the shop is out of my sight.

I am really wavering as to whether or not to let him go for the odd pint of milk, newspaper etc.

At his age I was cycling round the block to the letter box and can really remember the feeling of freedom, a sense of responsibility that doing a job for mum meant.

However, times have changed and I am not so sure what to do.  I know the chances of anything happening are slim but they are still there in the back of my mind.

When I discussed this with my mum she said "absolutely not, no way he is too young" and despite my reminder that she used to let me cycle around the block, she is still adamant that this is to dangerous to even contemplate.

However, I am not so sure, I don't want to wrap my children up in cotton wool, I don't want them to be scared of their own shadow and I want them to have a sense of responsibility.

So, if you were in my shoes, what would you do????

Peace and Love

S.A.M xx

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