Leaving Your Child Home Alone And Keeping Them Safe
by: Robert Young
Working parents - and that's the majority of American families today - share the anxiety, frustration, and even fear involved in leaving children "on their own" when school lets out, child care arrangements with neighbors and relatives break down, or there simply are not any alternatives.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
- Make sure your children are ready to care for themselves.
- Teach them basic safety rules.
- Know where your kids are, what they are doing, and whom they are with.
ARE THEY READY? CAN YOUR CHILDREN...
1. Be trusted to go straight home after school?
2. Easily use the telephone, locks, and kitchen appliances?
3. Follow rules and instructions well?
4. Handle unexpected situations without panicking?
5. Stay home alone without being afraid?
TEACH YOUR "HOME ALONE" CHILDREN...
- HOW to call 9-1-1 or your area's emergency number, or call the operator.
- How to give directions to your house in case of an emergency.
- To check in with you or a neighbor immediately after arriving home.
- To never accept gifts or rides from people they don't know well. (And you approve of)
- How to use the door, windows, locks and the alarm system if you have one.
- To never let anyone into the home without asking your permission.
(continued...)
Leaving Your Child Home Alone And Keeping Them Safe
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