Leaving Children Home Alone

Preparations

• If you will be gone for several hours, make sure your child knows what they may eat. If they take medication, be sure it is available for them. 
• Have flashlights in an area easily assessable in case of power outages. 
• If needed, set up a schedule for your child. 
• In addition, make sure there are no dangerous objects or substances. Make sure all alcohol, prescription and over-the-counter medications are locked in a closet. 
• Lock up or put away in a safe location items such as lighters, matches, tobacco products and car keys. 
• Consider putting away sharp knives and if you have any weapons in your home, be sure they are securely locked up.

Being prepared is the key to success. As a parent, we worry about our children and raising a child with ADHD, it is more difficult to determine the correct age to let them stay home. It may very well be that their friends have had the opportunity to stay home alone before you feel your child is ready. But the more prepared you are, the better the experience will be, for both you and your child.