2006-12-27 04:34:32 · 37 answers · asked by ANTHONY M 2 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Grade-Schooler
You know better than anyone if she is mature enough for the task.
When I was 10 I stayed home and watched a younger sis and 2 younger bro's while my mom was out. On the other hand I don't think my daughter (also 10) is ready for that kind of situation.
2006-12-27 04:45:36 · answer #1 · answered by Eye of Innocence 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
it depends on the 10 year old; i know some 10 year olds that are very responsable and capable of being left a lone for as long as a couple hours at a time; and i also know of some 13 year olds that should have constant supervision because of lack of maturity and responsibility. I personally would gage off of the 10 year olds behavior... do they do things they are supposed to do with out kicking up a big fuss... (cleaning their room, doing their homework, general household chores) and if they do then i would say go ahead and test the waters. Take a 10 minute trip to the corner store for a pop, make sure the child has a way of reaching a parent or other designated adult; and the most important question is this... is the child ready mentally and emotionally?? there are some kids at that age that aren't sure enough of them selves and can become easily frightened.. if that's an issue; hold off for a couple more years. good luck and best wishes.
2006-12-27 07:31:26 · answer #2 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would trust my 8 year old better than the 10 year old, however..
question back..if you live in a house, what do you do when you go out to do gardening or cut the grass? Where are the kids then? I wouldn't be going to do the $200 grocery shop, but if it were me, then I would be comfortable going for about a 20 minute trip. I have a cell phone and they have a phone. Chances are they haven't moved from the couch.
Cautions are it there are 2 of them, then there might be a fight. If it was one kid. Chances are the computer is on or the tube and for about 30minutes, with a call in about 10 minutes to make sure that they haven't decided to make a feast on the gas stove, that you'll be OK.
Be careful though, every province or state has guidelines (CAS) and if you have evil ex, then they will find the loophole to make you look like you abandoned the child to go get milk.
Good luck.
2006-12-29 16:49:19 · answer #3 · answered by Carrie C 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Check your local laws first. If the law says it's ok, then it is a judgment call on your part.
The child should have an emergency phone contact - either your cell phone or a family member/friend/neighbor that can be called in case of emergency.
The child should be encouraged to NOT open the door in your absence, be provided with a safe activity (reading, watching TV or playing a game).
The child should know when to expect you back.
I left my sons at home for up to two hours when I went shopping during the day and they thought it too boring to come along. I did, however, have neighbors that knew the kids were there alone and agreed to keep an eye on the house. Also, there were two kids, not just one.
2006-12-27 07:17:22 · answer #4 · answered by flywho 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it is perfectly fine for a 10 year old to stay home alone if they are mature enough and know not to answer the door for anyone. My mom use to tell me that if anyone calls even a family friend and they ask for my mom or dad tell them that they are in the shower. I started to stay home along at 10 but it was only for like 30mins-hour. Now I'm 14 and my parents leave me at home all the time.
2006-12-27 06:27:15 · answer #5 · answered by :D 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When I was 10 I stayed home by myself all the time for 2 1/2 hours!
2006-12-30 12:25:07 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
My 10 year will stay home sometimes for less than an hour. He HATES going grocery shopping so that's about the only time it happens so it's only during day time. He's not allowed to use anything in the kitchen but can grab snacks. Not allowed to answer door no matter who it is. and must carry the phone with him at all times. He's only allowed to answer the phone if it's me or my husband and I write down the numbers so he has them right on the phone. He's a pretty responsible kid but even an hour alone I feel is pushing it.
2006-12-27 08:32:58 · answer #7 · answered by Ella727 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, for maybe a few minutes, like if you go to the gas station or something really quick, I would not do anything more than that though. Is this a mature 10 year old? That would probably be my first question. Then my next would be if there is a neighbor or someone really close, in case of an emergency. Good luck!
2006-12-27 04:38:16 · answer #8 · answered by dnsnowden 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It would depend on the neighborhood, but I live in a small town and let my 9 year old stay home, but only for short periods, say 10-20 min. If you feel she is safe I'm sure it's OK.
2006-12-27 04:37:43 · answer #9 · answered by purpledragonflyjrh 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Of course it depends on her maturity. If she is a responsible girl and understands that she cannot open the door for anyone or answer the phone while you are not there or invite anyone over, then I think she could be alone for a short time - say 20-30 minutes. (Also make sure she knows to dial 911 in an emergency)
2006-12-27 05:40:44 · answer #10 · answered by LR 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋