Earlier this year my son celebrated a double-digit birthday and I found myself struggling to understand what's an acceptable age and time to leave him home alone. There are times when you simply can't cope with the eye rolling, it's not fair outburst if you mention an errand - and it's easier and certainly quicker to go and get it done by yourself. You need to assess whether your child / children are ready to be left. We are lucky to live in a very safe community, so if he is faced with finishing his Pokemon Indigo League or dashing out to the grocery store he will literally beg me to leave him at home with the dog.
We have established a few ground rules. First of all - he knows my cell number off by heart so will call immediately if there is any problem. He is not allowed to play outside unsupervised so the front door stays locked and he knows not to answer the door to anyone.
Following are some factors you may want to take into consideration:
- Their age - it's not recommended a child of 5 be left alone, however mature they are.
- Are they ready to be left alone? Some children will feel safe and others (aged 10 plus) may never want to be left.
- How long will you be gone for?
- Does your child follow directions? Will they go by the rules while you are away or get into difficulty?
- How safe is your neighborhood?
Download the printable guideline here: http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/kidshomealoneguidelines30days.pdf