For me, it was probably the fully part. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I would tend to agree with your stance on people who are strangers to your child, but not strangers to yourself. You can't keep your child locked away for life. It's just not practical.

We've rarely, if ever used babysitters (probably why we are strung out after 3 years!) other than my mother and one young woman we've known since she was born. And My DS goes to preschool, but he's always supervised by more than one adult there, so I'm not as concerned, especially when we can pop in at any time and there are usually other parents observing at any given time.

One thing I am concerned about is someone simply snatching him, or him getting away. But I, like you, try to use teaching moments and he seems to understand that he has to do what his teachers say. Glad you clarified this one...

Oh, and I know it's not right, but I immediately distrust anyone, especially men, who have put themselves in a position of trust with children. Wrong or not, I think it's the only prudent choice, and I think active involvement with your child's activities is the only way to mitigate the risk.