I think I can be overprotective at times... I know my kids therefor I know their strengths and weaknesses, having said that I may be a little overprotective when it comes to my daughtor climbing a tree or doing something a little out of her comfort zone while my son can climb without me hovering. I think it just all depends on the child. Some kids may need a little extra protection. However I have known some parents that take it to the extreme. When I was in high school I had a friend who's parents were so overprotective that she wasn't allowd to go to anyone elses house even if it was to do a group assignment. until the day we graduated she was not allowd to date. They did not allow TV in their home... It was CRAZY!!! As soon as we graduated she went buck wild!!! But I have also known some kids who's parents just let them do whatever, no boundaries, no rules and these kids often felt unloved and uncared for. I think all kids need protection but in moderation. You gotta give a little so they can learn...