Kids used to play in the street all the time when I was young. I played tennis in the road. But it was a cul de sac, and we always got out of the way for a car - because we knew it was a road and the car had right of way. But obviously if they scare your animals, that's another excellent reason to keep them away. Kids playing isn't so bad generally, as long as they move when you need to pass. We don't partake in the trick or treats things these days either. We don't have sweets in the house and don't want to buy any just in case someone comes knocking, which was always a bit hit and miss anyway.