| Like a lot of kids who grew up in the 80s and 90s, I played outside, unsupervised. All the time. In the summer months, I left the house after breakfast and only came back when I got hungry. How times have changed! Many parents today don’t let their kids out of their sight. I try to tell myself that I’m better, not one of those “helicopter parents.” But the other day my 11-year-old asked if he could walk to the gas station (only four blocks away) with his friend and my gut tightened. I have a hard time letting my kids go anywhere without me. The lack of autonomy is hurting the next generation. A recent report from the Journal of Pediatrics showed a decline in children’s mental wellbeing. Russell Moore reflects on the findings and explores how giving children permission to explore is an act of grace. Read: Let the Children Play Speaking of getting kids outside, check out this resource: Top 10 Outdoor Service Projects for Children. It’s a list of 10 creative and cost-effective service projects that kids of nearly any age can do. | 