I was a smart, mature kid and being sent to a day-care full of less mature kids was probably an under-utilization of my gifts at that age

I had to laugh as I pictured a 13 year old talking about their past like this. lol

I kinda think I get what you mean, mine was a tad different because although I went home I was not allowed to go to friends or have my sports run later than the assigned time. When granny got home I had to have the food ready and general just house in order stuff. Nothing was allowed to interfere with that routine until we were taken away when I was 16 and I had all the freedom I could ever want.

Needless to day I think I still misuse the freedom I wanted for so long with anything from binging to being a little needy bitch in doing only what I want.

Too bad you got pulled back into family things because they are the worst when it comes to helping. Family feels entitled and think they have a say. They forget they are just strangers you were forced to grow up with.

I agree on the steem things I think it is a healthy outlet within moderation. Ie so long as it does not replace better things haha.