Freedom for kids on Aruba

If you are taking your children to Aruba how old do they need to be before you let them go off alone? I was just a small child when I was there with my folks so it wasn't relevant. Now I'm making my first trip abroad without them and my Mom is back to acting like I'm five again!

If one was at least twelve, I would allow them to go somewhere nearby with a younger brother or sister. I always encourage my children to go in groups of two instead of alone. As they get older and get to know their way around more, I would give them more freedom to do things without their Dad and I.

Maybe I am over protective but I would not let them go off until they are at least 15. I would also insist that they always travel in groups and that they have regular check ins with me.

My parents used to let me run all over the place when I was very young, but times were different then. I would say 12 is a good age to start giving them some freedom.

I let my 15 and 16 year old go off on their own and they came back and told me that a server told them they could have alcohol if they wanted. Of course they said no because they would have been in big trouble. Just something to keep in mind.

Chipper, I think Moms worry about their kids forever, regardless of their age! Romana's story is a good example of why this is the case. Just reassure her that you are going to follow her advice and be sensible. It's easy to let common sense go out of the window when you are away from home.