Lenore Skenazy, a mom and the author of Free-Range Kids has declared May 22nd - the weekend before Memorial Day - as the very first "Take Our Children to the Park... And Leave Them There Day."

It is all part of Skenazy's crusade to bring back common sense parenting to what are some very overprotective times. Her basic philosophy is that kids need to get out in the world, and that even though there might be some risk involved, the risk is small and well worth taking.

Most of us used to play outside in the park, without our parents, without cell phones, without Purell or bottled water and we survived! Thrived! We cherish the memories! And if you believe the million studies that I’m always publishing here, kids are healthier, happier and better-adjusted if they get to spend some time each day in “free play,” without adults hovering.

Link

From the Upcoming ueue, submitted by timcanny.

Previously at Neatorama: Would you let your 9-year-old ride the subway alone?