Home alone for the first time: tips for parents

Published on August 21, 2023

With more parents headed back to the workplace, this may be the first year that some parents are leaving their children home alone after school for an extended amount of time. California, like most states, does not have a law that says a specific age a child needs to be to stay home alone-this decision must be made by the parents. Allowing a mature and well-prepared child to stay home alone for the first time can boost confidence and promote independence for the child but can be a bit scary for the parents.

Follow these tips for an easier transition:

Set ground rules

Consider setting rules about:

• Having friends over
• TV and computer rules (set parental controls)
• Kitchen and cooking guidelines
• Not opening the door for strangers
• Answering the phone
• Not telling anyone they are home alone

Communicate

Set up a schedule for calling. Make sure your child knows when you’re available and when you might be unable to answer a call. You might have your child call in as soon as they get home, especially if they are coming home to an empty house, or set up a time when you will call home to check-in. The goal is to figure out something that is convenient for the both of you.

Leave your children prepared

Make sure your home has these readily available: 

• Important phone numbers
• Flashlights, in case of a power outage
• Any medications they take regularly
• A fire extinguisher
• A first aid kit