Comments on: An Indefensible Act

By: An Idle Dad

An Idle Dad — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 21:26:17 +0000

Thanks Johanna. My only quibble is I’d say you used common sense when you left your child in the car, not “justified” an illegal act.

But then again, it is in the news today - maybe people are just too stupid? *sigh*

By: Johanna Baker-Dowdell

Johanna Baker-Dowdell — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 06:42:25 +0000

Idle Dad, I take your point and think we can be over-protective at times - in fact it was the reason I was able to justify what I did, but there is always going to be the ‘what if?’ question.

Nicole, thanks. It is a hard line to negotiate when weighing up the pros and cons.

By: Nicole

Nicole — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 11:08:16 +0000

Great post Joh, and as most people I have also left my son in the car while I run in to pay for petrol. But I hate it! Not only do I stress that someone could take him but I always worry it is getting to hot for him. To the point where I must look like the most impatient customer in the world. I never take my eye off the car and run straight back.

But I agree is it really better leaving them for 2 mins, not really. But it is one of those topics that no one will admit to. Congrats to you for having the guts to admit it.

By: An Idle Dad

An Idle Dad — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 11:00:51 +0000

Helicopter parenting (and nanny state) at work yet again? Surely common sense has some part to play.

There’s not a complete ban on drink driving, there’s an blood-level alcohol limit. In the same fashion, there needs to be a balance between caution and pragmatism on this subject.

Leaving my 1yo quietly sleeping strapped in the car while I pay for petrol is zero risk.

Secondly, what about during winter? Could you be charged with leaving a child in a car on a cold day? Ridiculous.

Thirdly, aren’t you inviting the Daily Telegraph to stalk petrol stations and plaster private citizens’ photos on a Sunday spread with “BAD MUM” written under it and an appropriately unmonitored hate-fest comments section?

Yes it is terrible when it happens, but a complete ban is a poor solution.