Parents of Young Children [I Have Children]

I would like your input. Last weekend I was having a drink beneath a tree by the beach and a short distance away a 6-y/o boy was playing in the runoff from a faucet. He was building twig structures in the mud, an engaging child whom I enjoyed watching. I gathered a handful of twigs and presented them to him. He gave me a mechanical "thank you" and continued construction. Before I even resumed my seat under the tree, dad appeared and rushed him off. I had neither touched nor spoken to him. So tell me, parents, would my action have aroused your suspicion? I was mildly offended at the implication.

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Gusman · 61-69, M

I am not a Parent, neither am I married.
What I have noticed in Society is that any guy who is by themselves is deemed a suspicious character, especially if alone in a park where there are children.
Parents are protecting their children from "Undesirables"
Sad reality these days with so many child molesters around.
Personally, I am acutely aware of the looks of the parents toward me if I happen to be in a park where there are children.
A few times I have received furtive looks in my direction from said parents.
I usually leave to allay their fears.

Wiseacre · F

@Gusman sad commentary!

Gusman · 61-69, M

@Wiseacre It is very sad. Pedophiles give single guys an unwarranted "Suspicious Character" moniker.

Wiseacre · F

@Gusman YES..didn't happen when I was young!

Carazaa · F

@Wiseacre Kidnappings were almost unheard-of years ago. I was left as a baby in the stroller every time my parents went into a store, and so were most babies in Scandinavia. No fear at all.