Child using tablet
At Every Turn > Primary Care > How to know when your child is ready to stay home alone
Tips Aug 29, 2014

How to know when your child is ready to stay home alone

Katie Horrigan, Director of Community Education and Outreach

Many kids come home after school to empty houses, and for a new set of tweens, this school year will mark the first time they are allowed to do this.

As parents, we know once kids reach middle school they become more independent and responsible for making the right decisions to keep themselves safe. But how do you know when your child is ready to stay home alone?

4 common misunderstandings we hear from parents

Below are four statements we commonly hear from parents that often concern us. For each, I have provided some guidance to help start your family’s conversation about your child’s preparedness to stay home alone.

1. “I can’t wait for my child’s next birthday so he can stay home alone.”

Most experts recommend that children should be at least 11 to 12 years of age before they are developmentally ready to stay home alone. But age is only one guideline. You, as a parent, are the only one who can assess your child’s maturity, comfort level and overall readiness. It’s important to make sure you and your child are on the same page. If he expresses worry, he may not be ready. When he is willing to try it, staying home alone can help build confidence and independence. Start by leaving your child home for a short amount of time, and extend that time as everyone becomes comfortable.

2. “I do not let my child cook anything on the stovetop while I’m gone. She just uses the microwave.”

Unfortunately, burns are common when using a microwave. Many people forget that food containers get extremely hot in the microwave. Kids should only use a microwave by themselves when they are tall enough to reach it safely and understand that steam can cause serious burns. Always use hot pads to carefully remove items from the microwave.

3. “My child doesn’t seem to have an interest in baby-sitting, so we’re not planning to enroll him in the Red Cross baby-sitting course.”

The Red Cross baby-sitting course is recommended for all kids age 11 and older, whether they plan on baby-sitting or not. It includes education on first aid, CPR, making good decisions under pressure and what to do in an emergency. The course is offered in some school districts, area YMCAs and in local communities. It is one way for kids to get ready to stay home alone.

4. “I can assume my child knows what is (and is not) allowed when I’m not around.”

Don’t assume anything. Clarifying rules and discussing expectations is important. Set clear limits on cooking, using TV, computers, electronic devices and having friends over. Make sure your child knows how to reach you, and what to do in an emergency. Post this information in a prominent place in your household for easy reference.

For more safety tips for tweens and teens, visit KohlsSafeandHealthy.com.

Children's Wisconsin Resources

Katie Horrigan, director of Community Education and Outreach for Children’s Wisconsin Child and Family Well-Being Katie Horrigan Director of Community Education and Outreach Community Health
Children’s Wisconsin has more than 20 primary care offices conveniently located throughout the Milwaukee area and southeast Wisconsin. Find a pediatrician near you. View more articles from Katie Horrigan

Related stories

How kids can safely use artificial intelligence Children's Wisconsin
Tips Aug 20, 2025

Rise of the Machines: What Parents Should Know About AI and Kids

Kate Bennett, DSW, LCSW Behavioral Health Consultant

What parents can do to help their kids use AI in safe and healthy ways.

How to identify and treat head lice in children Children's Wisconsin
Tips Aug 15, 2025

How To Identify and Treat Head Lice in Children

Sarah Mooney, MD Pediatrician

Lice are annoying, but they are harmless and do not spread disease.

Top 5 things parents should know about hand, foot and mouth disease Children's Wisconsin
Tips Aug 11, 2025

What Parents Should Know About Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

Cheryl Cameron, MD Pediatrician

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a mild but highly contagious viral infection that is common in young children.

Measles outbreak United States 2025 Children's Wisconsin
Tips Aug 08, 2025

Measles Outbreak Shows Importance of Getting Your Kids Vaccinated

Frank Zhu, MD Medical Director

The recent measles outbreak is a regrettable reminder to all of us of just how preventable this disease truly is when your child is vaccinated.

How to get kids to talk about the feelings Children's Wisconsin mental and behavioral health
Tips Aug 07, 2025

How To Help Your Young Child Talk About Their Feelings

Janelle Clark, LPC Behavioral Health Consultant

Children who find healthy ways to express their feelings are more likely to develop positive relationships with others, feel more confident and perform better in school.

Common newborn skin ailments Children's Wisconsin
Tips Jul 18, 2025

Baby Blemishes: Seven Common Skin Conditions in Newborns

Stephen Humphrey, MD Pediatric Dermatologist

Seven common skin conditions that affect newborns, how to treat them and when to see a doctor.

Building the Confidence Muscle: How To Help Kids Learn To Stand Up for Themselves Children's Wisconsin
Tips Jul 17, 2025

Building the Confidence Muscle: How To Help Kids Learn To Stand Up for Themselves

Jamie Radant, LPC-IT Behavioral Health Consultant

Teaching kids how to stand up for themselves is a valuable skill that will serve them well throughout life.