I like to read child psychology and a recurring theme is that children, especially as they reach adolescence, benefit greatly from mentors outside of their immediate family. Whether it’s an uncle or a retired Russian maths professor, it tends to offer something parents often can’t at those (and sometimes all) stages of development.
I’ve found that somewhat liberating as a parent. We should all embrace and encourage that if we can find it for our kids.
Yes, but with the widespread hysteria about pedophiles many potential mentors will decline. Already the suggestion that to work with children under public supervision you need a background check is an insult.
It is a serious deterrent. I became a volunteer scouts leader for my son’s scouts group some years ago and the process was unnerving. Background check from police, tested on generally not being a predator for a significant portion of the written application, literally not allowed around kids until it’s fully reviewed and approved.
I get it. Bad stuff happens sometimes. The message is clear though that (especially as a male), I’m not trusted around kids until confirmed and on record to be safe.
That’s not conducive to natural relationships with kids - you’re constantly on guard and cognizant of the fact that you’re a perceived threat.
edit: That was a little negative. I should add that it's still worth doing. There's no way to change that perception other than by doing good and reassuring people. More importantly, kids having good experiences because people make the time for them matters more than resenting being perceived as a creep all the time. Yeah, it's a drag, but mostly I ignore it and hike with the kids, teach them knots, or whatever. It's fine.
I’ve found that somewhat liberating as a parent. We should all embrace and encourage that if we can find it for our kids.