You and the parent are touching on the key difference. The neighborhood was a community who knew each other and looked out for each other. In the US this dichotomy is exceptionally rare, so a young child walking alone is truly among strangers. I am not saying that kids shouldn't have freedom to roam but it's different.
America lacks community in many places. I don't know if it's uniquely American, but it's very common. Neighbors don't know neighbors, the shop owner doesn't know who kid's parents are.
This is in my opinion is the primary reason why kids aren't allowed out alone.
America lacks community in many places. I don't know if it's uniquely American, but it's very common. Neighbors don't know neighbors, the shop owner doesn't know who kid's parents are. This is in my opinion is the primary reason why kids aren't allowed out alone.