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Family dynamics

27th Nov 2023

‘What age were your kids when you left them alone for the first time?’

Kat O'Connor

This mum is struggling with quite a serious decision

A mum is calling on other parents for some major advice.

Becoming a parent is one of the best, but most overwhelming times of your life.

There’s so much to learn and sometimes you need to turn to other parents for advice.

We can reflect on the way we were raised, but things have changed a lot in recent years. What worked in the 1980s may not work for you, and that’s perfectly fine.

One mum found herself in a little dilemma when deciding if it was safe to leave her child alone.

Leaving your child home alone is an incredibly daunting step, but at what age is it best, and most importantly, safest?

The mum explained that she was left alone all day during her childhood, but knows times are different now.

She told Reddit, “I’m a young Gen X. I was left alone ALL day in my childhood, but obviously times are different now.

“Curious about what age you finally cut the cord and left your kids home alone, even if just for a quick trip to the store. Not asking about laws, just personal feelings that you were finally comfortable in doing so,” the mum asked.

Fellow parents were quick to respond to the mum but many agreed that it all depends on your child.

Some parents revealed that their child was seven-years-old when they left them alone for a short period of time.

Others said they waited until their child was 11 or 12 years of age.

One mum put it perfectly and stressed that you should wait until your gut tells you it’s the right time.

Another stressed, “If they are too immature to handle basic things like a cell phone, I would advise against it.”

What do you think?

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Topics:

parenting,Reddit