Hi there. I am a very concerned, loving parent of a 10-year-old and a 12-year-old. Both children are very responsible. I normally work from home, but about two to four days per month (never consecutive) I am required to work in the office for various reasons as part of my job. I have no family here to help me out, or do I have the means for child care.

My question is, according to Indiana Laws, are my children allowed to stay home alone after school on those days that I have to be in the office? They are responsible for calling me as soon as they get home and doing their homework. They also are not allowed to leave the house, have friends over, cook ANYTHING, or answer the door or phone (unless it is my work number on the caller ID).

I do worry about this as it is a very frowned upon subject, but at the same time, I do trust my children whole heartily and feel like they are responsible enough to be home alone for 2 to 3 hours but never any longer then that.

:confused:

I don't know the Indiana laws, but in many places 12 year olds can babysit younger kids. The only time I would be concerned about this is if someone, with an ax to grind against you, decided to report you to the local children and families agency.

Normally the way it has worked in several states where I have had dealings with child welfare is that they is no set age by law, only that they be mature and safe.

And nothing happens until someone reports it, and then if all is OK, nothing happens, but if something happens, there is a problem, a fire in the building, some emergancy, that is where everyone second quesses your decission.

Thank you for your input. This does put my mind at ease a bit. I do feel like we live in a safe area, but in this day and age, you just never know... with that said, I think I will continue to go with my gut and knowing that my children are responsible enough and know the "rules of being home alone". As I am a concerned parent, I welcome all input and advise. :)

Times have changed since we were kids... I remember being left home when I was 4 and my oldest brother was 7.