Are Children Over-Protected? - North London Collegiate School 11+
‘Many people argue that children are not given enough freedom to explore the world and are over-protected these days.’
Write your thoughts in response to this statement. You may choose to agree or disagree or consider more than one viewpoint.
[20 marks]
💡 Writing Tips
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- State how far you agree with the quotation.
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- Give real-life examples of freedom and responsibility.
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- Consider why adults might worry about safety.
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- Finish with a balanced, clear opinion.
📝 Sample Answer
Freedom with a Safety Net
Some people believe children today are so carefully protected that they rarely get the chance to explore the world for themselves. I partly agree. Children need freedom to become independent, but that freedom should come with sensible boundaries.
Exploring teaches lessons that cannot always be learnt from a book. When children organise a game in the park, they practise solving disagreements. When they find their own way around a familiar neighbourhood, they grow more confident. If adults make every decision, young people may never learn how to make thoughtful choices.
However, protection exists for a reason. Busy roads, unsafe places and strangers can present real risks. It would be irresponsible to allow a young child to wander somewhere unfamiliar with no plan for getting home. Adults should explain dangers rather than pretending they do not exist.
I believe a gradual approach works best. A child might first walk to a nearby shop with a parent, then make the trip independently once they know the route and safety rules. Each small responsibility prepares them for the next.
Children do not need a world without rules. They need a world in which they are trusted to grow, with adults close enough to help when necessary.
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