There are very few states in the U.S. with legal minimum ages for children home alone, but many state agencies have published guidelines. Georgia, Illiniois, Maryland and Oregon are a few of the states with specific ages mentioned in their laws.
12 years of age appears to be the most common recommendation. Below in Related Links is an article entitled Latchkey Kids Age Limits which provides a state by state comparison with references.
One guideline from a California child welfare representative suggests that 8 year olds and over can be left at home for a brief period of time (usually just after school).
The age at which a child can be left at home alone is only legislated in two states, Maryland and Illinois. The legal check is whether or not the child is safe and has the ability to take care of themselves. Most authorities agree that leaving a 12 year old alone at home for an hour or two is acceptable, but they should not be responsible for other children.
its a maturity issue, but I believe the first time I was left alone in my house while living in Jerz was 11.
if you listen to the police it is 12 but dyfs will tell you 14, children at the age of 12 can take a babysitting class that will prepare them for all kind of emergancies
My sister in law told me her 12 year old son can stay home and watch his 4 year old sister with no adult supervision and I said not by law.
you must be 12 to stay home alone
A child must be at least 12 years old to stay home alone in Delaware. At this age, they can also babysit other children and siblings.
A child must be at least 8 years old to stay home alone in Georgia. At this age and in this state, they can babysit siblings as well.
Well you can pretty much stay home as soon as you are born. If you mean what age can you stay home alone, there are only two states that have passed any legislation about it. The general rule is that the child must be safe, must feel safe and must know what to do if there is an emergency. Most authorities agree that a 12 year old can be left home alone safely for a few hours during the day.
13 years
14 years old
Absolutely NOT!!! No matter how responsible, 16 years old is not an appropriate age to stay home alone for that amount of time.
i think it is 16
Over night, 15
12 years old
actually no, the legal age you have to be in South Carolina to stay home alone is 18.
It is against Florida state law for an 11 year old to be left home alone with a sibling. A child must be 12 before they can stay home alone and 15 before the are permitted to babysit.