Parenting presents many challenges, mainly concerning the health and wellbeing of your child. Mums and dads have many decisions to make every day – what time their kids should go to bed and what they should eat being a few.
Another consideration may be whether to leave their child at home alone if they need to nip to the shops, see a friend, or simply have a breather by going for a 15-minute walk.
However, NSPCC has urged carers to pay attention to the guidance they have issued surrounding the topic, which is quite contentious, and varies depending on the child’s age and ability.
“There’s no legal age a child can be left home alone, but it’s against the law to leave a child alone if it puts them at risk,” the NSPCC notes. “Every child matures differently, so it is almost impossible to have a “one size fits all” law.”
Ultimately, a child who isn’t old enough or who doesn’t feel comfortable being left home alone, shouldn’t be. There are various childcare options that may apply to your family. You should avail of them if your child feels this way.
But in general, if push comes to shove, at what age can a child be left home alone?
Again, there is no “one-size-fits all” answer, according to the children’s charity. “Every child is different, so build up their independence at their pace – and check in with them to make sure they feel safe,” they advise.
Babies and toddlers
“Infants and toddlers aged 0-3 years old should never be left alone – even for 15 minutes while you pop down the road,” the NSPCC warns. “This applies not just to leaving them home alone but also in your car while you run into the shops.”
Primary school children
“We wouldn’t recommend leaving a child under 12 years old home alone, particularly for long periods of time,” the NSPCC says. “If you need to leave them home alone, consider leaving them at a friend’s house, with family or finding suitable childcare.”
Secondary school children
“Once your child reaches this age, you could talk to them about how they’d feel if they were left at home alone,” the NSPCC goes on. “There may be reasons they don’t feel safe in the house alone.
“Just because your child is older doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ready to look after themselves or know what to do in an emergency. It can help to go over the ground rules and remind them how to stay safe at home.”
At every stage, as your child gets older, keep an open conversation with them on whether they feel alright being left home alone or not. There is no good in putting youngsters in a position where they don’t feel safe or secure.
If your child is of an age where they could have free reign of the house, but they’re still worried about the prospect of it, ask them why they’re worried. Could it be the area you live in? Are they scared of intruders, or even the dark?
“Talk about anything that’s bothering them and discuss a solution,” the NSPCC says. “Understanding why they don’t feel comfortable will give you an idea of how to help – or why they might not be ready to be left alone.”
The NSPCC Helpline is also available for any parent who needs help or support about any concern.
If you are worried about a child, even if you are unsure, contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email [email protected].
Don’t miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond – Sign up to our newsletterhere.