LatchKey Kids:Home Alone
Montreal working mothers, like mothers all over North America have valid concerns when it comes to deciding whether to let their children stay alone while they are at work are sometimes at a lost to know what to do. There are no laws in place in the USA or Canada to determine a legal age. However, 10 years of age seems to be the accepted age advocated by many social and children's groups.
Samantha Wilson of Kidproof safety advises that parents should ascertain if their children are comfortable being in the house alone.
Here are some tips to help parents decide if their children are ready to stay on their own:
Can the parents trust their child not to have a bunch of kids in the house?
Parents must determine if their child is well aware of the dangers associated with strangers. Can the child be trusted not to give out any information over the phone should it ring, or open the door to strangers? Parents must individually decide if the child should answer the phone because the parent is checking in, or the child should not answer the phone at all.
Is the child capable of quickly locking and unlocking deadbolts and other locks?
Is the child prone to losing his or her keys? This in and of itself is a strong indication that the child may not be ready to stay alone.
Is there an extra set of keys easily available to a child who has lost his or her set?
Does the child know how to contact 911 for an emergency as well as how to contact the parent at work? Does the child have access to a trusted neighbour should something go wrong?
Furthermore, parents should teach their children basic first aid treatment.
Parents should also have the child check in with them at work at least one a day either by telephone call or by email exchanges.
Parents should make sure the house is childproof; no sharp objects, firearms, medication, and liquor should be easily assessable.
Parents should run through different possible scenarios of what could happen and ask children how they would handle the situation. They should also provide guidance and instruction wherever the child's knowledge is lacking.
To be continued
Sources:
Published by Carol Roach
Carol Roach holds a masters in counselling psychology. She worked as a therapist at the Douglas Hospital in Montreal before becoming a professional writer.Carol is the author of the book Picking Up The Piece... View profile
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13 Comments
Post a CommentYes, it is a tough choice. If kids aren't old enough and really ready, don't leave them!
It is indeed a tough choice for many parents now with the guilt factor either way; when working leaving a young child home alone, or not working to become a stay at home mom. For me, my wife was happy to stay at home and my son too preferred it that way! Relevant topic for everyone, Carol - siva
Fabulous article and series...well done! :-)
Excellent article as always. Thanks!
Thanks for this very helpful and informative article!
I was that as far back as I can remember as a kid. But then I never really was a kid in the traditional sense of the word.
Another good article! Thanks, Carol!
well written - thank you
Nice article, Carol!
I agree...this article is so full of good advice.