Back To School...

There is no magic age for allowing your child to stay home alone after school.  It's an anxious decision, but  you can be better prepared and confident with some careful planning. Here's some tips to consider when letting your child stay home whether only for a minute or  for a few hours.

Questions To Consider
Think about the area where you live. Are there neighbors nearby you know and trust to help your child in case of emergency? Do you live on a busy street? Is it a quiet area? What about crime in or near your neighborhood?

Tips To Consider

• Consider your child's method of entry. Will they carry a key or will they use a hide-a-key.
• Know your child's schedule, what time does the bus let him/her off at his stop?  How long does it take before they are inside the home.
• Secure perimeter of your home (trim hedges, clear out overgrown foliage, clear trash or clutter) so your child can see clearly if anyone is hiding in bushes, behind cars, etc.
• Let a neighbor or friend know if your child is home alone. This will give you an extra set of eyes.
• Consider having a call-in system with your child. If they have not checked in by a certain time you can pursue further actions.
• Equip them with important home and cell phone numbers.
• Make sure your child is knowledgeable about arming and disarming your security system.
• Make sure they know how to use the panic button. Decide whether or not your child can comprehend and use the silent alarm feature. Some systems have a particular code, while others silent alarm may be accessed by putting one digit higher or lower from the disarm code.
• Interior video or web cam systems can give you a visual look-in live on your smartphone or computer when they enter the home.
• Designate a safe house or business in the neighborhood that will allow your child to come in the event they feel uncomfortable about going home.
• Setting limitations on where your child can go after school will allow you to better pinpoint where they are at all times.

These guidelines can help you feel secure about your decision and your child's independence at home.