Are Your Children Ready to Stay Home Alone?

At some point, parents must determine if their child is ready to stay home alone. Children who spend time on their own before or after school are among the fastest growing segment of this country’s school-age population. Some experts say that between five and six million children, ages five to 12, are home alone for part of the day.

As you consider this opportunity for your child, there are things you can do to prepare your child for this experience.

• Make certain you have a secure apartment or home. Do a safety check of doors, windows, locks and lighting. Install new locks or a front door peephole. Trim the bushes near your doors or windows so no one can hide behind them.
• Check your home thoroughly for fire hazards. Make sure that smoke alarms, furnace, water heater and appliances are in good repair. Store matches and flammable materials out of the reach of children. Have a fire extinguisher available and teach your child to use it properly. Develop a fire escape plan and practice it several times with your children.
• Assemble a first aid kit. Store it where all family members can use it. Train your children to use it for minor cuts and burns.
• Prepare a list of important telephone numbers and post it near all telephones. Teach your children how to dial the operator or how to dial 911. Make sure your children know their full name, address and telephone number.
• Play "What If" games. Ask your children questions about everyday situations they may face as they stay home alone.
• Establish a clear set of house rules. Include rules about using the phone, allowing friends over, using appliances, snacking and watching television.