This may be controversial but
It would be nice if they added a sprint mechanic to the neighbor and the kids
here how they would work:
The sprint can be activated by pressing shift or W twice
This also adds the stamina mechanic that will be consumed by sprinting for a long time.
(clarification: the running mechanic in the current game will still be there, but it would now be like
"jog" or something like that)
By having the sprint active the player will not be able to throw or grab objects,
sprinting for children may have little durability, in exchange for acceptable speed
On the other hand, for the neighbor, the sprint would last longer, but the speed would decrease.
for the neighbor stamina issue when running in the normal game
it may stay or be removed to be used in the sprint
If they don't eliminate it, then the sprint will consume the neighbor's stamina faster.
If you don't like these changes I proposed and want to improve it, let me know!