Can a 16 year old babysit her 10 year old brother overnight?

Answer 1

This would vary from case to case. Based on things such as: how comfortable the parents feel about it, how mature the older sibling is, how mature the 10 year old is, and whether it is going to be a safe situation.

Many parents would feel very hesitant leaving a 16 year old alone overnight with a 10 year old sibling.

But, if the circumstances are right then things could work just fine. (OPINION) Personally, I would only feel comfortable leaving a teenager alone with another young child if I knew that there were trustworthy adults nearby, and only if I could get home in the case of an emergency or problem.

Other things could also play into a parent's comfort level on a decision such as this one. These things may include what type of neighborhood they live in, and weather conditions. If there was severe weather in the area many parents would not feel comfortable leaving a young teenagers, and a child home alone. Because in the event of a tornado, or possibly flooding then young teen might panic in such a high stress issue.

It would most likely be best to higher a trusted adult, or even request that a relative or neighbor watch the kids while the parents are away.

Answer 2

When it's family, it's just looking after family and the government can't stop you from looking after family.