When can children be left home alone?
This is a very common question for parents. At what age can I leave my child home alone?
Currently, the State of Michigan does not have a formal law that states what age a child may be left home alone. Very few states have this regulation, though there are recommendations in place.
In a State of Michigan Child Protection Handbook (Last updated November, 2006), it states: “According to the Child Protection Law, there is no legal age that a child can be left home alone. It is determind on a case by case basis but as a rule of thumb, a child 10-years old and younger is not responsible enough to be left home alone. A child over the age of 10 and under the age of 12 will be evaluated but the case may not always be assigned for a CPS [Child Protective Services] investigation.”
Questions to determine improper supervisor include:
1. If the child is being left home alone, how old is he/she?
2. How often is he/she left home alone?
3. Is he/she left alone during the daytime or in the evenings?
4. How long is he/she usually left alone?
5. Is there a phone in the home?
6. Does the child know what to do in case of emergency?
7. Are any of the children in the home mentally or physically handicapped?
8. Has the child ever been left alone over night?
9. Is the child home alone right now?
The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Division of Administration for Children & Families, has more information available here about state laws.
Additional Links:
MSU Family Helper’s List (including babysitters)
American Red Cross Babysitter Training