A grandmother in Florida is expressing concern over a situation at her local playground involving a young girl who appears to be unsupervised. The grandmother, who regularly picks up her grandson from day care, has noticed a six-year-old girl frequently playing alone while they visit the park after school.
The grandmother, who has been taking her grandson to the park for about 45 minutes twice a week, describes how the girl has been seeking her attention during their outings. Although the grandmother initially included the girl in their activities, she found that it only increased the girl’s demands for attention. This, in turn, distracted her from playing with her grandson, who has voiced his annoyance at the interruption.
The playground, being a popular spot after school hours, seems to be where this little girl spends her time, likely waiting for her parents, as suggested by the grandmother. However, the grandmother is left to wonder if any adult is actually supervising the child, as she often does not see anyone in the immediate area.
In her letter to the advice column “Dear Abby,” the grandmother sought guidance on how to manage the situation without hurting the little girl’s feelings. She acknowledged her understanding of the child’s need for adult interaction, given her background as a retired teacher, but emphasized that it was becoming increasingly difficult to balance her time between the two children.
In response, Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, urged the grandmother to inquire about the girl’s supervision. She recommended that the grandmother ask the child who is responsible for her care—whether it is a parent, guardian, or other adult. If it turns out that no one is watching the girl, Van Buren advised that the grandmother should report the situation to local authorities or Child Protective Services (CPS), as leaving a child unattended in a public area poses significant safety risks.
This exchange highlights a growing concern within communities about child supervision in public spaces. The grandmother’s experience raises important questions about the responsibilities of caregivers and the safety of children in playgrounds. As families navigate their daily routines, it is crucial for adults to remain vigilant in ensuring that children are properly supervised while playing outside.
For further guidance, readers can reach out to “Dear Abby” at www.DearAbby.com or via mail at P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
