Age of child home alone after school

rkelley3 · May 31, 2008, 06:22 AM

There are very few states in the U.S. With legal minimum ages, but many state agencies have published guidelines (NH, Illinois, Maryland and Oregon are a few of the states with very specific ages). Typically 8 year olds and over can be left at home for up to several hours (usually after school before a parent gets home from work).

12 years old appears to be the most common recommendation. Home Alone Children Age Limits provides a state by state comparison.

rkelley3 · May 31, 2008, 06:30 AM

There are very few states in the U.S. With legal minimum ages, but many state agencies have published guidelines (NH, Illinois, Maryland and Oregon are a few of the states with very specific ages). Typically 8 year olds and over can be left at home for up to several hours (usually after school before a parent gets home from work).

12 years old appears to be the most common recommendation. Latchkey Kids Age Restrictions provides a state by state comparison.

MrsBNP · Dec 6, 2011, 08:25 AM

It's amazing how much misinformation people can dish out. Here's a government website that provides accurate information.

http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/factsheets/homealone.cfm

This paragraph says it all:

Legal Guidelines
Some parents look to the law for help in deciding when it is appropriate to leave a child home alone. According to the National Child Care Information Center, only Illinois and Maryland currently have laws regarding a minimum age for leaving a child home alone.1 Even in those States other factors, such as concern for a child's well-being and the amount of time the child is left alone, are considered. States that do not have laws may still offer guidelines for parents. For information on laws and guidelines in your State, contact your local CPS agency. If you need help contacting your local CPS agency, call ChildhelpÂ® at 800.422.4453.

JudyKayTee · Dec 6, 2011, 08:56 AM

It's amazing to me that people can reopen a thread from 2007, reopened the first time in 2008, and think the person asking is still hanging around, waiting for an answer.

You have also incorrectly posted a site (please check how to correctly post a reference), that site having been first posted in 2007, out of date in several States.

kkgva · Jun 7, 2012, 04:37 AM

I started baby sitting for neighbor's children in the eves, when I was 12 years old. A responable child should be able to take care of themself at age 12. Just have them remember these rules - don't touch the stove or answer the door and never tell ANYONE by phone or computer that you're by yourself.

Age of child home alone after school

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