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2007-02-19 04:36:12 · 13 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pregnancy & Parenting Parenting

13 answers

Hello! First of all, I would say it is dependant on that child. There is not a set age to where a child does not NEED a babysitter any longer, but there is an age where a babysitter is no longer required. In most states, I believe it is 12 years old. But the age when a child no longer needs a baby sitter is dependant on how mature that particular child is. Also, if there is more than one child, and the oldest will be caring for the younger ones, it is dependant on whether the younger children will listen to and mind the oldest one who is put in charge. That is a key element in determining the age at which children no longer need babysitters. Also, regardless of whether it is one child or more than one, they have to know what to do in an emergency. Who to call, etc. They just need to be prepared! Hope this helps!

2007-02-19 04:42:05 · answer #1 · answered by ? 2 · 0 0

Usually between 8-10 but you know your child best and know if they need someone or not. Many states have laws that kids under 10 canno be left alone and kids under 12 cannot be left to watch younger siblings. If you think your child is approaching that age then it is time to test their knowledge of things like what to do in a fire, if someone knocks, if someone calls, if the electricity goes out, and what to do if they are hungry (can they cook, should they cook). Give your child the chance to demonstrate each skill and come up with some extras. Let your child show you how grown-up he/she is and you get not only cheaper nights out but the opportunity to really build your child's confidence and self-esteem.

2007-02-19 04:44:23 · answer #2 · answered by Huggles-the-wise 5 · 0 0

Depends on the maturity of the child. I wouldnt leave a 6 year old unattended, but a 8 year old or 10 year old is fine by me. In my state they say a child can be left alone 1 hour for every grade they are in. So if they are a 5th grader- 5 hours total. (i would never do that though).

I think though if your child is real immature you have to trust your instincts. My children were alone at home when my daughter was 11 without a sitter- but never overnight, usually for a few hours.

2007-02-19 04:44:01 · answer #3 · answered by glorymomof3 6 · 0 0

I think the legal age varies from state to state. Somewhere around 13 or so. I was staying alone for short periods of time when I was 10. I think it also depends on the maturity of the child also. If the child is 13 and is responsible, then I would let him/her have a go at it for short time periods (hour or so), then go from there. If they aren't very responsible then I would be looking into something else for childcare until they are more responsible. Good luck!

2007-02-19 04:43:51 · answer #4 · answered by Crystal 5 · 1 0

Depending on how long they are being left alone, and how mature and responsible the child is.

If they are mature and responsible and they are only being left alone for like an hour, then I'd say about 8.

If they are mature and responsible and they are being left alone for 2-5 hours I'd say 10.

If they are mature and responsible and are being left alone for longer, 11 is good.

If they are not mature and responsible then I'd say don't leave them alone for any period of time till they are at least 10 and not for a long period of time till they are 12 or 13.

2007-02-19 05:45:35 · answer #5 · answered by em<3 6 · 0 0

It depends on the child. I know 16 year olds who probably shouldn't be left alone. I'd say about 12 or thirteen if they are being left alone for the day, and about 17 or 18 overnight.

2007-02-19 04:43:47 · answer #6 · answered by Kara 3 · 0 0

The legal age is Ten at least in the state of Kansas. If your leaving them for only a few hours all day I say about fourteen years old in my opinion.

2007-02-19 04:42:09 · answer #7 · answered by Tara Elaine 4 · 0 0

I believe they have to be 12 years of age.

2007-02-19 04:52:00 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0 0

I think that it depends on the kid. I would say 11-12 should be ok unless it is a crazy kid then I say wait until you feel comfortable!

2007-02-19 04:39:22 · answer #9 · answered by princess_becca25 2 · 1 0

When you feel he or she is capable of being alone safely, with a well rounded routine that will keep them occupied. Bored kids burn houses down.

2007-02-19 04:49:24 · answer #10 · answered by marymouse26 2 · 0 0

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