Every parent wonders what age their children can safely be left home without adult supervision. In general, it's not a good idea to leave kids younger than 10 years old home alone. Every child is different, but at that age, most kids don't have the maturity and skills to respond to an emergency if they're alone. However, some parents may be OK leaving a more mature 8- or 9-year-old home alone for a short period of time once in a while.
The term "latchkey" refers to children between the ages of 5 and 13 who take care of themselves before and after school on a regular basis. An estimated 30% of children younger than 14 care for themselves or are cared for by older siblings during non-school hours.
The State of Texas does not specify an appropriate or minimum age at which a child can be left home alone. Read more here. However, the Texas Department of Family and Protectice Services (DFPS) recommends that children under 12 should not be left home alone. The National SAFEKIDS Campaign recommends that no child under the age of 12 be left at home alone.
Parents should consider a child's age and maturity level. If a child is extremely impulsive, it might be best to wait until he or she is older than 2.
A general rule of thumb is that kids under age 7 aren't capable of thinking logically and putting cause and effect together. They are reliant on caregiveres to structure their day. Children between age 7 and 10 years aren't generally ready to self-supervise for an extended period, but in a routine and predictable environment, such as just after school, they can manage. Children 12 and 13 years old should be judged on a case-by-case basis but should not be left alone overnight.
There are many options besides leaving children unattended, such as grandparents or trusted friends. Some parents are able to take their children to work with them.
Endless Discoveries offers before- and after-school care, plus spring break and summer camp activities. Our 2024 Mission: Impossible camps for school-age children provide field trips and fun activities to keep kids safe and involved.
For spring break, Endless Discoveries - Saginaw students will be going to Willow Creek Park and having Spy Kids, Wacky Water Wednesday, STEM Toothpick Pyramid Challenge, and Leprechaun Ice Cream Sundaes.
Endless Discoveries - Glen Rose spring break field trips will be Heritage Park and Dinosaur Valley State Park. Fun activities planned are using decoders through an obstacle course to find a treasure, movie day, St. Patrick's Day crafts, and science experiments.
#childcare #summercamp #kidscamp #afterschool