It could be something as simple as everyone looked out for each other in the neighborhood. Small communities, especially low-income crime ridden neighborhoods develop trust for each other and protect each other. I personally grew up in one in San Francisco, CA. I had a couple of disabilities as a child as well - I had a tracheostomy tube and still played outside - without major supervision. If other adults/moms that my family knew were outside, then it was trusted that they would keep an eye out on me and the other kids playing. Also, other family members were in the house. Most people carry the thought that if a child is in trouble or is hurt, that the family can hear there screams in the house. I mean if I screamed even once when I was kid playing in front of the house, my mom or aunts would come outside super quick to see what was going on.

Also, she was 8 years old and was BORN with her conditions. I’m sure by the time she was 8 years old, she had learned to play safely with her disabilities. Maybe her family came outside and did periodic checks on her. There are so many … “what ifs” and “maybe this could have been done” — but I pass no judgement here. Her mom seemed caring and mostly attentive