jeni, extra caution certainly can be warranted by particular circumstances.
On the other end of the spectrum from "helicoptering" is the "free range kids 'movement'". (I haven't been using enough quotes lately, and am turning over a new leaf.) An acquaintance on Facebook seriously proposed that letting five-year-olds and up take themselves to the store, park, etc. makes good sense. I think that's child endangerment, personally. Every parent needs to decide such things for herself.
Asking about guns in the household is a good idea. Thank you!
