Neighbour Calls The Police After Children Play With Chalk On Pavement

A mum was left in shock when her neighbour called the police after her children used chalk to play hopscotch on the pavement.

Sarah Goodwin, from Buckinghamshire, revealed her three children and a number of their friends had used the chalk to create the traditional outdoor game.

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Although the markings later washed away, Sarah was left in shock when the police and local housing association were both called by unhappy neighbours complaining about the 'vandalism'.

Posting about what had happened on Facebook group, Family Lockdown Tips and Ideas, Sarah wrote: "How do you feel about children chalking on the pavement? Nothing offensive.

"My children are six, nine, and 13, plus their friends. Hopscotch, tracks for scooters, drawing around themselves and it completely washed away a few days later.

"Had complaints made about it to housing and police. I thought kids playing outside was better than sat in, in front of screens."

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After receiving a wave of supportive comments, Sarah explained her children and others in her neighbourhood had been back out with the chalk, refusing to be deterred by the complaints.

"After their first day back at school and playing at the park, they went out and chalked some more yesterday," she said.

"They played more hopscotch, what time is it Mr Wolf?, made a road for the bikes with traffic lights, roundabouts and parking, to which even passers-by joined in.

"The kids loved it and so did I. They played out for about three and a half hours with friends and neighbours, 12 children in total aged from four for 13.

"They laughed lots and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Loved the community spirit it brought.

"I'm sorry but anyone who thinks this needs to be complained about has a serious problem. Or the person who loudly said have you seen the state of this, needs to get a life as when the rain comes in a few days it will be gone.

"I am making the most of possibly the last few nice days before winter kicks in."

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Sarah received heaps of support, with one person writing: "Shame on you for letting your kids enjoy themselves out in the fresh air with a bit of innocent chalking. Seriously though, I actually can't believe somebody complained about this. Don't let some idiot spoil your fun."

While another said: "Some people need to get a grip, children chalking soon washes away."

And a third added: "Kids can’t do anything anymore. Can’t believe the police have been involved over a natural material.

Topics: Life, Parenting

Lucy Devine

Lucy is a journalist working for Tyla. After graduating with a master's degree in journalism, she has worked in both print and online and is particularly interested in fashion, food, health and women's issues. Northerner, coffee addict, says hun a lot.

@lucedevine