Mother of 8-year-old who went to Target alone shares the aftermath: ‘I couldn’t sleep’

When 8-year-old Zoe Wilson of Bedford, Ohio, woke up on the morning of September 15 and decided hop into his mother’s Nissan Rogue with the family dog ​​and head to Targetshe wasn’t necessarily bargaining for web fame.

Since the incident went viral, her mother, Tangie, has finally spoken out about the events, which has amused authorities and lots of people online.

“I still haven’t had time to process it mentally,” Tangie told The. New York Times.

She explained that coping with the unexpected attention and fame, in addition to the scrutiny it brought, was a challenge. Comments on the Internet range from solemn (many of them praising Zoe as a hero) to concern for the safety of children near cars and assessment of the situation. There are also seasoned veteran parents who have expressed their opinions, expressing sympathy and even expressing sympathy for his or her kid’s stunts.

“It was very stressful and exhausting – mentally, physically and emotionally,” she said.

“I couldn’t sleep because it all started with (Zoe) leaving the house while I was sleeping. It was like someone pulled the rug out from under me,” she continued. “And it was just these questions – everyone wanted to know who this little girl was and how she did it.”

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Tangie wasn’t entirely sure how her daughter managed to drive the automobile out of the driveway, making the 10-mile trip to the chain store and only hitting one green mailbox along the way. She was shocked when Zoe’s older sister notified her that Zoe, their dog, and their automobile were missing.

“She had never done this before, so she still didn’t register that she was walking the dog,” Tangie said, adding that aside from the occasional go-kart ride or a ride on her grandfather’s lap at the wheel when she was a toddler, the 8-year-old had no previous experience in driving.

Her Nissan Rogue was parked backwards in the driveway, potentially making it easier to drive away. People Magazine reported. When Tangie notified authorities, a camera adjoining to Ring’s door showed footage of Zoe driving away. A short while later, police found Zoe protected and sound at Target. Previous reports indicated that Zoe was spotted sipping a Frappuccino, but Tangie has a distinct theory.

“I think the officers did it to make the story seem cute because they thought it was a joke,” she told the New York Times. “They remained professional but smiled and smiled. I think it was just stunning for everyone.”

The family has since found a way to turn it right into a teachable moment.

Tangie said that when learning or trying something latest scares Zoe, she reminds her, “Did you know how to drive a car before you drove it yesterday?”

When Zoe remembers that she didn’t do it, Tangie adds, “OK, so it’s the same with multiplication: you don’t know how to do it, but you’ll learn.”