I agree as well, and my wife, Tanya, and I echo what Michelle says about letting our children know when they are doing something that others find offensive, and to let us know if you think it's appropriate. Since we can't be with our kids at all times, especially if we are going to allow them to grow and hopefully become responsible citizens, we are both grateful for anyone informing our kids (and us) about how their behavior or actions might be offensive or intrusive. Kids will be kids, and for the most part, these kids aren't doing anything I never did, but I did pay the consequences of making poor choices, and so will our children.
Unfortunately, not everyone in this neighborhood has the same attitude. Last week Tanya noticed a couple of children riding their bikes through the yards of several neighbors. She asked the children not to do so and they continued their actions. Tanya then addressed each of the two childrens' parents about the situation who said they would take care of it. Later, one of the parents came back to Tanya to clarify what the issue was and whether the kids were riding though OUR yard. The answer was no, they were riding through other peoples' yards. The parent then asked if the owner of those yards said anything about it (no they didn't because they weren't home) and then essentially said that until his/her kids are told otherwise, he/she didn't have a problem with it.
And people wonder why there is so much disrespect for other peoples' property in this country.
What if they were throwing rocks at the houses? What if it was their yard, and we just watched someone vandalize it? The fact of the matter is, INTENTIONALLY riding--or walking-- through someone's yard is considered trespassing and is both criminally and civilly actionable. Although that isn't the point, really, the bigger issue is just basic respect for other people's property.
Dan Neilsen
12 Tabilore Loop