How old does your child have to be before you can leave them alone?

Answer by  SashaDarkCloud (5764)

Laws vary from state to state about how old a child can be before they can be left unsupervised. Though it also depends on how dependable your child is too.

Answer by  Kriket (1029)

It depends greatly on the child. It also depends on the length you will be gone. Legally, states some states have set 12 or 13 as the age.

Answer by  mcymom (67)

Although you may feel that your child is capable of taking care of themselves sooner, in most states you cannot legally leave them alone until age 10, as long as there are no younger children with them. You should check for what the law is in your particular area, however, before you leave your child by him/herself.

Answer by  tamarawilhite (17883)

In most states, the child cannot be left home alone under the age of 12. A child younger than 12 can be left alone with a child over the age of 12. In some states, the limit is age 10 to 13.

Answer by  emp (263)

I think the legal age varies from state to state, but 12 years is a good starting point. It depends on the comfort level of your child.