What age can you legally leave your kids on their own? The advice every parent should read ahead of the summer holidays
THE school holidays are in full swing, which means your childcare plans probably are too.
One of the most difficult decisions parents make is when they should leave their kids at home without supervision.
Although most want to have free rein when they're barely out of nappies you obviously need to wait a while... but how long exactly?
The biggest problem with that question is there isn't a law you have to stick to.
Legally, all that's said is kids can't be on their own "in a manner likely to cause [them] unnecessary suffering or injury to health".
That's obviously pretty confusing, which is why the NSPCC has stepped in.
The charity has created a list of guidelines to help mums and dads decide if their child is ready to be home alone.
- Babies, toddlers and young children should never be left on their own - even if they're asleep when you pop out, they will probably get very upset if they wake up and you're not around.
- Children under 12 usually aren't mature enough to deal with an emergency. They shouldn't be left along for long periods.
- You shouldn't leave kids under 16 on their own overnight.
- You can be prosecuted for neglect if it's found that you put a child at risk by leaving them on their own.
- No matter how old they are, if a child isn't happy or comfortable being on their own they shouldn't be left without an adult.
- The decision to leave a child with extra needs alone or with a carer needs to be taken particularly carefully.
- If you are leaving a younger child with one of your older kids, think about how well they get on. If they argue will they still be safe together?
What to think about before leaving your child alone
- Is your child responsible and mature?
- Does he or she always do what you tell them?
- Are they able to make a snack?
- Are they allowed to use the cooker or microwave?
- How would they deal with an emergency?
- What if there was a power cut?
- What would they do if someone came to the door?
- Do they answer the phone?
- Do they know how to get in touch with you if needed?
- Do they have emergency contact information?
- How would they feel about being alone? Excited or scared?
If it's found that you left your child alone when you shouldn't have you could be prosecuted for neglect.
It's a serious offence which can lead to a fine or imprisonment.
If you do decide it's the right time for your son or daughter to be home alone, put some steps in place first.
- Take to your child. Make sure they're happy about being on their own and come up with ways around anything which is worrying them.
- Set ground rules so your child know what's expected of them while you're out.
- Discuss what they're do while you're out. Maybe they'll have a friend round or watch their favourite TV show.
- Tell them not to announce they're home alone on social media - you don't want any impromptu house parties.