What is the legal age for a child to stay at home by herself in Texas?

Answer 1

There are two states that have set a minimum age of 13 (Maryland and Illinois). There is not any other states that have a law about what age someone has to be to be left alone. They are more concerned with the child's ability to take care of themself and has the means to do so. "...Although, there is no Texas law that defines a specific age at which a child may be left home alone, there are several factors that should be taken into consideration when deciding how closely to supervise a child..." 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).

Answer 2

There is no law specifying an age. The child must be safe, feel that they are safe and know how to handle emergencies.

Answer 3

Texas does not have a law that specifies when a child can be left at home alone. This is left up to the parents to decide if their child is mature enough to handle being left alone.

Answer 4

There is no such law. There is a law that state someone can be held criminally responsible if something bad happens to a child that is under 15 and has been left alone.

Answer 5

10