This one is a really old debate- protect kids or let them learn from their mistakes? And whatever it is that you choose, where do you draw the line? Touching a hot cup of tea may be OK, but how about running on to the road? Or touching a cup of hot tea may NOT be OK, but how good/bad is not letting him use a public swing for fear of infections?

I think I fall somewhere in between the two extremes and frequently swing from one end to the other. Here are some of the things on my NOT OK list:

• Walking unsupervised in traffic areas (he has to hold my hand)
• Sharing water bottles or spoon/fork etc. with other kids
• Being alone in the bathroom, for however short a duration
• Handling sharp objects (knives, scissors etc)
• Climbing on things not meant for the purpose
• Eating hard candies, nuts etc
• Touching the stove, oven or anything that is boiling hot

I can't recall any more, though I'm sure there will be many others.

So how about yours?

By the way, my son is now 2 plus and this list is current.