Is He Old Enough?

My older son is 11. He CRAVES independence and freedom. He's a fairly responsible fellow, generally does the chores he is asked to do with little issue, follows our rules and does well in school. He has been asking for permission to meet his friends in town to 'hang out'. This group is only about 5-6 boys.. all between 11 and 12. I asked what they do.. and basically they loiter. LOL They walk through town, grab a slice of pizza or ices or donuts or whatever, wander through the stores and 'hang out'. The town is not terribly big and many of the shop owners know who the kids are or they know us (parents) so it’s not that they would be stuck in the middle of foreign territory.
I have not allowed Robbie to join his friends so far. At SummerFest he was really irritated because all of his buddies were there together but I made him stay with us the whole time (to be fair.. Summerfest has a huge influx of people from out of town so I don’t think I was unreasonable feeling a little uncomfortable). So anyway.. his buddies are planning on getting together this week to do their usual little wander. Robbie is BEGGING me to let him go. And I am actually considering it.
When I was his age I was all over the place, I don’t think my parents had any clue where I was most of the time - downtown, at the mall, at the park, at the beach. Rob was more sheltered in that he wasn’t allowed off the block until he was 13 so we come from different perspectives on the matter. But the world is a different place then it was anyway.
So.. the questions..
Am I out of my gourd to consider allowing my 11 year old, almost middle school son to have some free reign through town?
Anyone with older kids? How old were they before you allowed them this type of freedom?

Re: Is He Old Enough?

At 11, no I wouldn't let him hang out in town alone. I would say 13 minimum. Even then, I don't think I would let him just hang out in the streets. It would have to be some sort of organized event, like the movies, etc. But I'm pretty overprotective of my children.

Re: Is He Old Enough?

I think I would be ok with it, but I would limit the time his first couple of times out. Let him have an hour or so the first few times until you get more secure.

Re: Is He Old Enough?

Re: Is He Old Enough?

I would let him hang around in town if he had a way of reaching me (cell phone) & town was close or if I was in town too & he was just roaming around with his friends.

I'd make sure he knew that this privilege could be revoked if he does something that warrants it. (that's more for my kid, than yours )

Re: Is He Old Enough?

Im in a similar boat. My son is also 11. Also asked me to go to our 1 little strip mall with his friends, which is all Shoreham has LOL and I said no, but Gabe is forgetful and impulisve. I think it depends on the child. If you decide to Id give him a cell phone and make sure he stays with multiple friends. Good luck. I know its so hard to let them grow up and be independent. Can you imagine in 5 or 6 years well be teaching them to drive!!!! *faint*