In Canada, how old do you have to be to go around by yourself?

Question

Do you have to be at least 12 or at least 13 to be able to go around without your parents? =)

Answer 1

It depends on what you mean by "go around by yourself..."

Common sense tells most parents not to let their children under a certain age be left unsupervised. In Canada, a child cannot legally be left alone in their home if they are under the age of 12.

However, you might see young kids walking up the street to their school, or waiting at the corner for their bus, or walking down to the store to get some milk. Again, common sense applies. I might let a ten-year old walk down the street to his friend's house alone, if I let the other parent know that he is on his way.

But in today's society almost on a daily basis, we hear of molestors and kids going missing. Would I really want to be that parent that finds out my child has disappeared because I did not take the time to walk with them or protect them?

Answer 2

well there isn't a law or anything that says a child has to be with a parent or guardian or under supervision at all times. Sure some people might be concerned if you are really young and wandering around by yourself.

Answer 3

Around where? My nephew started taking the metro/bus to school by himself when he was 9 or 10.