When Can I Go Out With My Friends?

Lots of kids are interested in going to places like parks or movie theaters with their friends — and without parents. Many kids will be ready to walk to school or go to parks or playgrounds with just friends by the time they’re 10. But kids often wait until they’re a little older (around 12 to 14) to go to places like the movies or stores with just friends.

What Should I Do Before I Go Out With My Friends?

If you’d like to go somewhere with just your friends, talk to your parents to see what they’re comfortable with. Kids may be ready to be on their own at different ages. If your parents say it’s OK, make a plan before you go out so you can stay safe.

These important tips can help:

• Make sure you know the kids you’ll be with. Give your parents their names — and phone numbers, if you have them.
• Ask your parents what time you should be home. Even if you’re allowed to stay out later, it’s safer to go home before it gets dark.
• Have a plan for how you’ll get home. Ask your parents to pick you up or if you can take a bus or train with your friends.
• Know how to get in touch with your parents if your plans change. If you’re allowed to have a phone or smart watch, add your parents' phone numbers to your contacts. If you don’t have a phone or smart watch, see if a friend you’ll be out with has one you can borrow. Ask to add your parents’ phone numbers. You can also write the numbers on a piece of paper to bring with you.
• Have a back-up plan for whom to contact in case you can’t reach your parents. That might be your grandparents, another relative, or a neighbor. Add their numbers to your phone and keep a hard copy to carry with you.

When Can I Talk to Strangers?

Try to avoid talking to people you don’t know and never wander off by yourself or with someone you just met. Use street smarts (knowing how to keep yourself safe from strangers when you're alone or with other kids). Sometimes you may need to talk to strangers — like a police officer or someone working at a store — to get help. But never talk to strangers who come near you and offer things like candy or a ride. Say “No,” and walk away.

Going out with friends can be a lot of fun as long as you stay together and stay safe!