Although it can be very challenging to even entertain the thought of leaving your child alone at home, it will become necessary in time. You might want to always have your child in tow but there will be instances wherein you will have to muster the courage to trust that they can handle themselves on their own in case you need to step outside for an emergency or when you need to go back to your work. Leaving a child alone might be difficult at first, but you also have to think that this step will help them develop their maturity. So when is the ideal time to finally decide that your young one is already capable of taking care of himself and that you can already feel confident that you will come home to a safe and happy child? What are the important factors that you need to consider so that you can save yourself and your child the inconvenient consequences of this action?
Legal Aspects
Under some state laws, minors 15 years old and below shouldn't be left at home without the presence of an adult guardian. Failure to comply with this law might be grounds for child abuse or negligence and you might face some serious legal implications. Know the rules in your state concerning this matter so that you will be aware that what you might consider as a necessity might be treated by the law as parental incompetence.
Independence vs. Dependence
Every child will have a different capability of fending for his or herself. You might have observed how one of your officemates is already talking about how her kid can already be left at home, but it doesn't mean that your kid might have the same disposition. Observe your kid when he is performing daily functions while at home or even when you are out in a public place. More so, you have to consider if your child has been used to having adults carry out all responsibilities at home. If your child has been dependent on a nanny or adult care for quite a time, chances are, he still needs some time to adjust to the situation of being left alone at home.
Understanding of Responsibilities
Your child's idea of responsibility should encompass living and non-living things inside the home. When you leave your child alone, he might have the tendency to play around the house and start to smash things, such as your kids' boys watches and girls watches. Your child might not be aware that childrens watches are highly valuable and so are the other things in the house. This can spell serious trouble if the kid breaks valuable items in your home, knowing that no adult will reprimand him immediately. Thus, you have to explain to your kid that the things in your house are of great value and that you would be disappointed if you come home to a set of broken vases. To reinforce your point, see to it that you are also careful with your material things when you are at home.
Safety Aspects
Safety is probably one of your greatest concerns and this might be the reason why you are skeptical of leaving your child at home. Once your child starts to understand the things around him, you already have to teach him the importance of safety measures inside the home. Remind your child to always lock the door and never open it unless he knows that it is you or the other members of the family. Post emergency numbers, such as 911 and your contact details, on an area in the house that is highly visible to your child so that he will know how to reach you in case an emergency arises. You can also familiarize your child on how to get out of an emergency situation by holding drills or showing him the safe areas at home.
At first, it might be very hard to leave your child alone at home. However, once you know that he can already handle it, you will be glad you have taught him to be independent and responsible enough for himself.
Legal Aspects
Under some state laws, minors 15 years old and below shouldn't be left at home without the presence of an adult guardian. Failure to comply with this law might be grounds for child abuse or negligence and you might face some serious legal implications. Know the rules in your state concerning this matter so that you will be aware that what you might consider as a necessity might be treated by the law as parental incompetence.
Independence vs. Dependence
Every child will have a different capability of fending for his or herself. You might have observed how one of your officemates is already talking about how her kid can already be left at home, but it doesn't mean that your kid might have the same disposition. Observe your kid when he is performing daily functions while at home or even when you are out in a public place. More so, you have to consider if your child has been used to having adults carry out all responsibilities at home. If your child has been dependent on a nanny or adult care for quite a time, chances are, he still needs some time to adjust to the situation of being left alone at home.
Understanding of Responsibilities
Your child's idea of responsibility should encompass living and non-living things inside the home. When you leave your child alone, he might have the tendency to play around the house and start to smash things, such as your kids' boys watches and girls watches. Your child might not be aware that childrens watches are highly valuable and so are the other things in the house. This can spell serious trouble if the kid breaks valuable items in your home, knowing that no adult will reprimand him immediately. Thus, you have to explain to your kid that the things in your house are of great value and that you would be disappointed if you come home to a set of broken vases. To reinforce your point, see to it that you are also careful with your material things when you are at home.
Safety Aspects
Safety is probably one of your greatest concerns and this might be the reason why you are skeptical of leaving your child at home. Once your child starts to understand the things around him, you already have to teach him the importance of safety measures inside the home. Remind your child to always lock the door and never open it unless he knows that it is you or the other members of the family. Post emergency numbers, such as 911 and your contact details, on an area in the house that is highly visible to your child so that he will know how to reach you in case an emergency arises. You can also familiarize your child on how to get out of an emergency situation by holding drills or showing him the safe areas at home.
At first, it might be very hard to leave your child alone at home. However, once you know that he can already handle it, you will be glad you have taught him to be independent and responsible enough for himself.