What age for independence?

ie riding a bike around the block, running to the end of a wooded trail by himself, going to public bathrooms ( you are closeby but not walking to the bathroom with the child so definitely out of your sight)

Just wondering how other parents deal with these things in this day and age where "safe" neighborhoods are not as safe as we might think they are etc etc but we still have to cut the cord a bit....so whats a good age in your opinion. An age where you would feel comfortable for your child to do these things.

Thanks

Re: What age for independence?

I only have a 2 year old, but I think in today's day and age Middle School (6th grade, 11years old) will be when DD gains independence.

Obviously certain things/ situations may earn more independence than others, and every child is different.

IMO, Under 10 is definitely too young to ride around the block (unless you live on a circle), or go on a wooded trail alone.

Re: What age for independence?

I think it depends upon the maturity level of the child and the circumstances of each event. But as for going to the bathroom - if there is no family bathroom, I will stand outside in the hall way next to the entrance of the rest room while DS goes to the men's room. He just celebrated his 6th birthday. We started this a couple of months ago. I think 6 is about the age to gain some independence - like playing on the street with friends, but not the next block (and 1/2 the kids there are 11 years old so there are some older kids who I have asked to keep tabs on DS). I will save that for next spring/summer. Today we worked on making mac and cheese on the stove. He understood that he can help with supervision, but if an adult is not in the kitchen he should not be turning the stove/oven on himself. I have cooked with my kids since they were able sit on the counter (mixing, pouring) at about 12 months old. I think it is a gradual thing. At 3 my kids were ok to be left in a room by themselves. I believe in giving kids the freedom to try new things in a safer environment and gradually encourage them to be more and more self reliant and independent.