Many child care centers and family child care homes do not accept children over age 12. As you consider allowing your child to stay home alone, it is important to weigh your child's maturity level, attitude towards being home alone, level of communication with you, and the safety of your home environment. The following statements may help you decide whether your child is ready to stay home alone. For each statement, decide whether it applies rarely, sometimes or often for your child.

• My child carries out responsibilities according to my directions.
• My child uses good judgment.
• My child tells me about problems at school and home.
• My child can easily reach me by phone.
• There are other adults nearby who can help my child.
• My child feels comfortable staying home alone.
• My child expresses fears about staying home alone.
• My child gets along well with us (parents).
• My children get along with each other.
• My child knows personal safety and first aid skills.
• Our neighborhood is generally considered safe.

(The statements are adapted from I'm In Charge, by the Kansas Committee for Prevention of Child Abuse, Topeka, KS, 1983)