At what age can I child be left home alone? Is there a state guideline in PA?

Question

Is there a state guideline in PA? I was angered to say the least that my ex-husband left our 8 year old at home by himself!

Answer 1

Wow. I was a latchkey kid and took care of myself in the afternoons from the age of 8 on.  I knew the phone numbers of all the emergency services, and could go to a neighbor's house if something came up that I couldn't deal with. Nobody found that at all unusual back then - most of my friends were doing the same at that age. I guess times have really changed.

I think the answer really depends on a number of factors, like: for how many hours? Day or night? Is there a trusted neighbor adult the child can turn to if something goes wrong?  And perhaps most important -- how well have you taught your child the skills he needs to *be* left home alone?

Answer 2

I'm not sure if there is a law but I would think between 12- 14 years depending on the maturity level of the child.

Answer 3

There is no real law but they say to use common sense and depends on the hours involved.  The law only states that no child under the age of 12 years can babysit, children under 12 can't be left responsible for another child.

Answer 4

as far as i know it's 10 years old.

Answer 5

Eight is a bit young to be left alone for long periods.  Don't let your child know you are angry with his dad for it, it may make him feel guilty and he may not tell you if it happens again.

Answer 6

32

Answer 7

1 months because it cant move

Answer 8

8 is WAY too young. The general guideline is age 12 however there are only two states with laws and they are Illinois and Maryland.

Most states have guidelines about maturity but I don't believe any 8 yr old could be mature enough to handle being home alone. The youngest I would leave a mature child alone would be age 11 and that would only be for a very short time span.

Answer 9

Depends on the kid. I'd get left alone for short periods, such as long enough for Mom to make it to the grocery store and back in about ten minutes, at that age, but I was more of a mature kid. Mom still doesn't like leaving my brother at home for more than an hour, and he's almost 12. He's just not as mature.

Answer 10

I believe it 14 years old, that's how old you have to been to babysit.

Answer 11

i think 10 or 12 would be a good age....my brother had to watch me when he was 12..i was 9 while my parents worked

Answer 12

i believe the recommended age is 11, but you have to consider maturity factors etc.  i know that my state does not have  a law on minimum age requirments, but you have to use common sense.  young children, toddlers, babies, etc. cannot be left alone.  i don't blame you for being upset.  8 is definately too young in my opinion.  Maryland & Illinois are the only states to actually set min. age of 13.  check out these sites for more info on your state's recommendations.

Answer 13

12 I think for most states. No wonder he's your ex!!

Answer 14

that is way too young....12 is a good age...but only for a few hours during the day....I wouldn't leave anyone under 15 for a few hours alone at night

Answer 15

It depends on the state, the age, how long the child was left alone, and how well the child can handle being by himself.