Home Alone?

[moonemaiden]

I was wondering at what age do you think it's ok to leave a child home alone? What age is a child able to babysit? And does it constitute neglect if someone leaves their child home alone at an age you deem inappropriate?

I personally think it depends on the child, some children act mature earlier than others. However, I think it would be difficult to make that kind of assessment on my own child (she'll always be my baby). A 9 year old girl was left home alone today while her parents went to work. Everybody knows her and her neighborhood is safe. But she is very immature for her age, her social skills are around those of a 5 year old, she tends not to think things through, refuses to tend to basic hygiene, among other various issues. I, personally, don't think she's old enough to be left home alone.

But I had a full-time babysitting job at 11. I watched two children (ages 5 and 8) after school until nearly midnight. And I thought I was plenty old enough. I don't think I would view my daughter in the same light.

What does everyone think?

[freckles]

[QUOTE=moonemaiden;61533]
I personally think it depends on the child, some children act mature earlier than others. QUOTE]

This was what I was thinking too. My neighbor has a very mature 12 yr old whom she trusts. At first the mom went to do a small, 5 minute errand. And everything went gradual from there.

I think I would feel comfortable doing the same as my neighbor....age 12 and up, but only small amounts of time.

[nkrumpfer]

It really depends on the child. It's always easier to leave siblings home together as well.

When I was younger I stayed home with my brother when I was 8 and he was 12.

If the child is mature enough and educated on basic safety they should be fine. For babysitting I recommend having your child take a baby sitting class. It never hurts to be overly careful

[APEMBERTON]

I agree that the it depends on the child! I was left alone a little younger, but it was because my sister was there & she was 3 years older!
Also the gradual thing is a good idea. Start out small & then work your way up (time wise)!