A recent situation at a local park in Florida has raised concerns about child safety after a grandmother reported observing a young girl playing alone. The grandmother, who picks up her grandson from daycare twice a week, shared her experience of encountering a six-year-old girl who appears to be left unattended during after-school hours.
The grandmother described her routine of spending approximately 45 minutes at the park with her grandson, engaging in various activities like climbing slides and playing tag. Over the last two weeks, she noticed the same girl consistently joining them, seeking attention and interaction. The little girl has expressed a desire for the grandmother’s involvement in her play, requesting to go down the slide together and asking her to watch her swing.
While the grandmother appreciates the girl’s friendly demeanor, she expressed concern that the girl’s presence detracts from her time with her grandson, who has become visibly annoyed by the interruption. The grandmother stated, “I understand she is craving attention from an adult, but she’s really impeding on our play time together.”
The timing of their visits coincides with the end of the school day, leading the grandmother to assume that the girl’s parents might be nearby in the parking lot. However, she questioned the wisdom of allowing a child to roam unsupervised in a public area.
To address the situation, the grandmother considered the possibility of reaching out to the girl to inquire about her adult supervision. She plans to ask the child if anyone is present with her, such as a parent or caregiver. Depending on the response, she may either speak with the adult or, if no responsible adult is identified, report the matter to local authorities or child protective services (CPS).
Child safety experts emphasize the importance of adult supervision, particularly in public spaces. According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, children should never be left unsupervised, as it can expose them to various risks.
As the grandmother navigates this delicate situation, her primary concern remains the well-being of both her grandson and the little girl seeking attention. This incident highlights the need for vigilance in ensuring that children are adequately supervised while enjoying outdoor activities.
Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, continues to provide advice on such matters through her widely read column, Dear Abby. Readers can contact her for guidance on similar issues via her website or mailing address.
