you
are here
|
When to leave a child home alone is a difficult decision. Unfortunately, in many cases, family circumstances force a choice before parents have had a chance to consider all the issues and make a judgment. Many times it happens around the age of 10-12. Before this happens in your family, think about these two questions. |
TWEENS REALLY NEED:
|
|
 |
How mature is my child? Children vary widely in their ability to follow directions, occupy themselves, cope sensibly with unexpected situations, and resist temptation. Generally speaking, many ten-year-olds are ready to handle being alone for short periods of time—an hour or so. Age alone, however, is not a reliable guide. | |
 |
Second - How safe and familiar is my neighborhood? A familiar neighbor willing to check on the child or be available can ease your mind and be a sense of security for the child. If one is not available, you may want to rethink your decision to leave your child alone. |
 |
|
With the
child, make a schedule of activities and post it on the refrigerator.
Review important telephone numbers and post them next to the schedule.
Review safety rules. Try to do this in a way that does not scare
your child. Rather than share tales about terrible things that may
happen, teach a few basic rules about what to do in particular situations
like when the doorbell rings; when an unknown person calls on the
telephone; if a fire breaks out. When the time comes...help your child feel connected to you. Leave a special message or snack surprise to let her know she is in your thoughts while you are away from home. Begin with short intervals of absence. Run an errand or visit a neighbor the first few times you leave your child alone. Gradually increase the frequency and length of your absences. |
 |
Return to the Table of Contents or continue to the Introduction, Consistent Discipline, Structure, Role Models, Values, Good Nutrition, Money Skills, or Resistance Skills.
This page last updated Tuesday, November 18, 2003
Copyright Information
This publication is available in alternative media on request.
Penn State is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity University.
This site is a product of Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences.
Please e-mail us with your questions, comments or suggestions at PikeExt@psu.edu.