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Home Alone
When and How?
By Elizabeth Pantley
Do they get along?
The third consideration, if you have more than one child, is whether the children have a usually peaceful relationship. Of course, all siblings bicker from time to time, but if the children fight constantly, physically or intensely, it is unwise to leave them alone. Is it safe? The fourth area of consideration is the safety of your home and neighborhood. Do you have a burglar alarm system that can be set? Are there neighbors living close by that you know and trust? Are you next door to a high school, video arcade, or a tavern that attracts unsavory characters? Be honest with yourself. Don't overlook a bad situation because you feel leaving your children home alone is your only choice. If something bad happed to your children, you would realize that there were, indeed, other options.
Start with training:
Once you have decided that the situation is right for your child to be home alone, begin with short periods of time. Make certain you or another trusted adult who is close by, is available by phone. Gradually increase the amount of time as you and your child become comfortable with the arrangement.
Important note: