Experts estimate that from five to twelve million children between the ages of five and thirteen are at home alone for some period of time every day. Many of 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 victimized, be involved in accidents, or to engage in delinquent behavior.
Some children enjoy caring for themselves and happily accept the added responsibilities.
Others may be lonely, bored, or scared. Studies show that a close relationship with parents may decrease or moderate any negative effects of self-care. To promote self-care skills, parents should focus on setting rules and limits, increasing levels of responsibility, and communicating basic safety information.