Every day thousands of children arrive home from school to an empty house. Every week thousands of parents make decisions to leave their children home alone while they work, run errands, or go out for social engagements. The realities facing children who find themselves home alone are very different. There are many issues and potential risks and dangers that you should consider before placing your child in this situation. It is not possible to make a general statement about the age at which a child can safely be left home alone.
Many states have laws that hold parents responsible for the supervision of their children.
You must consider your child's level of maturity and past evidence of responsible behavior and good judgment. Older adolescents are usually responsible enough to manage alone for limited periods of time. Limit the amount of time you are absent. Talk with your children to develop a plan that addresses each of the issues or potential problems listed above. In addition, strive to make your home as safe as possible from obvious dangers and hazards.