Spices of Life

Keeping kids safe while at home alone during the summer requires planning and forethought. Daycare costs, especially for older children can be expensive. If your child is staying home alone for the first time, it is important to ask yourself several questions:

Is your child legally old enough to be home alone?

Each state has its own guidelines that determine when a child is old enough to stay home alone. The legal age ranges from age 8 in Maryland to age 14 in Illinois.

Does your child feel safe staying home alone?

Talk to your child about what it will be like to stay home alone. Practice letting them stay home alone for an hour or two. Depending on age and personality, some kids may be ready to tackle this challenge, while others may be a bit nervous.

Do you have clear rules for when the children are home alone? You should look into adt in New York and get an alarm system as well.

Written rules eliminate any possible confusion. Rules may include no using the stove, swimming or having company. Other rules may include keeping the doors locked or checking in every 2 hours.

Do you have an emergency plan?

Work with your child to teach them what to do in an emergency. In addition to calling 9-1-1, your child should know basic first aid and where to go if the house becomes unsafe.

The article written by Debra Herman