How old should a child be before he can be left home alone?

Question

Very mature for his age.

Answer 1

13-14

Answer 2

I think ultimately it depends on the child. Other factors are how long will he be alone, and where will you be? I think a good average age is 12. I would first let him stay alone for a few minutes while you do something short like go to the gas station. Make sure he knows your number, where you will be, and how long you will be gone. If this goes well and the child is not uncomfortable, then let him say home for maybe an hour next time. Make sure he knows all of the rules of the house and if you are concerned or have doubts about his abilities to follow those rules, then he may not be old enough just yet.

Answer 3

In N.C. 12 is the age a child can be legally left alone. But as a Mom of 5 kids It would also depend on the childs maturity and trust I felt about their decision making.

Answer 4

11

Answer 5

I would honestly tell you that if you have to ask this question - than you aren't ready to leave him home alone. The question you should be asking yourself is do you think he would be responsible enough to be home alone. Try leaving for a short period of time (1/2 hour) when you come home - don't baby him - praise him for being responsible. Continue adding 1/2 hour increments. Most kids aren't left home alone for more than 3 hours ( after school until parents get home from work). Use your best judgment. We don't know your kids maturity or responsibility level.

good luck

Answer 6

As you might expect, it really depends on the child. You could always try it in little segments ... say, 10-15 minutes at first and then gradually make it longer. I'd pay attention to peer pressure as well. Even mature kids fall for that sometimes when left alone and a "cool kid" comes by.

Answer 7

I wouldnt leave kids home alone until they were about 13. Or since you said he was mature then maybe 12. Its up to you. If he is like 6 then definitely dont do that. Some states have laws about how old you have to be to babysit, I dont think that applies to staying home by yourself.

Answer 8

Depends on what your county and state laws deem as an allowable age. In Alabama, I thought that by age 13, a child could be left alone without supervision...It's actually 14. Check your state and county laws, to be safe. I was 14, but my mom worked fulltime, and didn't have anywhere for me to go but home. I checked in as soon as I was home and she came home from work within about two hrs.

Answer 9

You definately need to check the local laws.
You state law will determin age and for how long they can be left alone.
Yes, there are different time lengths for different ages in some states

Illinois law defines a neglected minor, in part, as "any minor under the age of 14 years whose parent or other person responsible for the minor's welfare leaves the minor without supervision for an unreasonable period of time without regard for the mental or physical health, safety or welfare of that minor."
Juvenile Court Act, 705 ILCS 405/2-3(1)(d)

Maryland Family Law Article, § 5-801, provides:
(a) A person who is charged with the care of a child under the age of 8 years may not allow the child to be locked or confined in a dwelling, building, enclosure, or motor vehicle while the person charged is absent and the dwelling, building, enclosure, or motor vehicle is out of the sight of the person charged unless the person charged provides a reliable person at least 13 years old to remain with the child to protect the child.
(b) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $500 or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days, or both.
This information is available on the Web at http://www.djs.state.md.us/faq.html. For additional information, contact the DJS at 410-230-3333.

State of Viginia Age Guidelines
7 & under Should not be left alone for any period of time. This may include leaving children unattended in cars, playgrounds, and backyards. The determining consideration would be the dangers in the environment and the ability of the caretaker to intervene.
8 to 10 yrs. Should not be left alone for more than 1½ hours and only during daylight and early evening hours.
11 to 12 yrs. May be left alone for up to 3 hours but not late at night or in circumstances requiring inappropriate responsibility.
13 to 15 yrs. May be left unsupervised, but not overnight.
16 to 17 yrs. May be left unsupervised (in some cases, for up to two consecutive overnight periods).
These guidelines are available on the Web at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/childrenyouth/homealone.htm.

Just some examples so check with you local state law.

Answer 10

I would say 12 to 13 it all depends on how mature