For many working parents, finding a reliable babysitter or securing a spot at a summer camp isn’t always easy.
That leaves some wondering: Can I leave my child home alone? And if that’s the only option—how young is too young?
What’s the legal age to leave a child home alone in NY?
Unlike some states, New York does not set a legal minimum age for leaving children home alone. According to the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, children mature at different rates, and some may have special needs or abilities. Therefore, it’s up to parents or guardians to make thoughtful, informed decisions.
When making that decision, consider:
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Maturity: Has your child shown the ability to handle responsibility?
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Preparedness: Can they manage basic tasks like preparing food or knowing what to do in an emergency?
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Circumstances: How long will they be alone, and in what setting?
Very young children, of course, should never be left unsupervised.
While there’s no law in New York setting a specific age, parents can still face legal consequences—such as child endangerment—if something goes wrong while a child is left home alone.
How to decide if your child is ready
Though there is no one-size-fits-all answer, Safe Kids Worldwide suggests that most children are ready to stay home alone around age 12 or 13, depending on their maturity.
Experts also recommend looking at your child’s behavior at school. If your child tends to follow rules and act responsibly in a structured environment, that’s a good sign they may be ready for some unsupervised time at home. If they tend to misbehave or push boundaries, it may be wise to wait.
Contributing: USA Today Network
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Can you legally leave your child home alone? What NY law says
