I was scared to let my kids bike alone or go to sleepovers. Giving my 10-year-old more independence has helped me be more confident, too.

The author and her husband have three kids.

Courtesy of Melissa Noble

• Over the years, my husband and I have wondered when to let our kids have more freedom.
• I'm not sure how old they should be before they start having sleepovers or riding bikes alone.
• My perspective shifted after we moved in with my parents, and I'm ready to let go more.

A few years ago, when our son was 8, one of his mates asked if he could go bike riding around the neighborhood with him.