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How old to stay home alone after school?

post #1 of 6
8/28/06 at 6:49pm
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We've been debating hiding a spare key somewhere in case I get caught up and can't make it home right at the time the bus comes. This has happened a few times where I was in Walmart and got stuck in a line, yadda, yadda, yadda. Anyway, on more than one occasion I've come screeching into the driveway about 10 seconds in front of the bus. I nearly had a panic attack since there is really nobody I could rely on to be there for my kids if I couldn't be.

Then I also wonder if Jessi is responsible enough to watch over Cody for a short period of time until I can get home? Luckily, TJ wouldn't be an issue, but I'm wondering if 10 is old enough to watch a 6 year old for say, less than an hour, in a rare situation?
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post #2 of 6
8/28/06 at 7:26pm
I would think so yes. I also think that would build a lot of responsibility for her as well.

I started staying home after school (for roughly an hour) in 3rd grade as well. Of course, I didn't have a younger sibling either, but I still think it would be okay, since it would be a rare occasion.
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post #3 of 6
8/28/06 at 7:34pm
At 10 I would think that on occasion she would be able to stay home and watch her brother.
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post #4 of 6
8/28/06 at 9:02pm
I would say so. It's not like you plan on making it hours and hours. I started watching my brother for about 20-30 min after school when I was only 8, and he was in kindergarten. If you are just doing it incase you get caught up somewhere you could always make sure you have your cell on and let her know if she gets there with noone home she has to call you.
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post #5 of 6
8/29/06 at 1:03am
I would say 10 is good. I started staying by myself when I was in the second grade. But I had to call the moment I got home, and eveery hour on the hour there after ( though it wasn't more than 2 hours at the most). And I didn't have a younger sib either so..
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post #6 of 6
8/29/06 at 9:15am
Josh is 9 and I have left him here for 5-30 minutes alone on occasion. I have also had to leave him for 15 min. with the other two boys when DH got stuck in traffic and I needed to be at work. I would just have her call your cell phone and remind her to lock all the doors and start their homework. Be sure to make Cody understand that Jessi is in charge, and make sure they know what you expect of them. Mine know they must have the doors locked and they are not to go outside, cook or eat (yes I am paranoid) anything, and know all the safety procedures.
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