Giving children the opportunity to explore is an important first step to their independence

Parents aren’t doing their kids any favours by keeping them by their side 24/7 and instead need to teach them how to stay safe while exploring the great outdoors, writes Andrea Mara.

NOW the summer holidays are finally here, children up and down the country are free to enjoy the great outdoors and a renewed sense of freedom.

Meanwhile, anxious parents are worrying about safety and wondering how much to let go.