Always, they're the parents' worry. Experts estimate that from 5 to 12 million children between the ages of 5 and 13 are at home alone for some period of time every day. In many cases, their parents either cannot afford child care, or none is available. Children in self-care are about three times more likely than those supervised by adults to be involved in accidents, engage in delinquent behavior, or be victimized. And while no parents can be with their children all hours of every day, those who must leave their children at home alone on a regular basis often are gravely concerned about how well the children can cope, both with routine activities and potentially dangerous situations.
Some children enjoy caring for themselves and happily accept the added responsibilities.
Others occasionally are lonely, bored, and scared. Moreover, studies show that a close relationship with parents decreases or moderates any negative effects of self-care. It is not meant to replace regular contact with a parent or other trusted adult, but it could be a valuable resource, particularly for those parents whose jobs don't allow unlimited access to a telephone. Check with your parent-teacher group or law enforcement agency. If there is such a program, be sure your children know the locations of the Safe Houses along their regular routes to and from school, and walk those routes with them to be sure they're safe.