Would it be okay?

[5PrincessMommy]

Would it be okay to leave my 10 year old (11 in december) at home while I took my littles to the playground at the end of our cul-de-sac? I can literally see my house from the playground, but chances are I'd be more focused on the littles than the house, kwim?

What sparked this is dh took all the kids to the playground today. My 10 y/o went too. But it got me thinking b/c she is very moody, likes her space, likes to get away from her sisters, etc. So then I thought well maybe I can take everyone else to the playground and let her have some alone time sometimes. Although, I'm not even sure if she'd want to, b/c she likes the playground too, but it was just a thought that crossed my mind for when she's having an overly hormonal day.

So, what do you think? She has a cell phone, as do I, and if I ever did it, I would bring mine and make sure hers was on loud.

[isabelsmummy]

Yes, I think that is a perfect situation to start introducing the idea of that kind of independence and teaching the responsibility it entails.

[jeebee]

I think it would be ok if you're in a safe neighborhood and she knows to keep the house etc locked while you are not home. I know we were left home alone sometimes during the day from that age for short periods.

Obviously also totally depends on the child and maturity level, but it sounds like she is able to handle it.

[krismark0]

I think that would be great! She is plenty old enough, even if she is only mildy responsible.

I know times are different, but when I was exactly that age I started my first bicycle paper route and there was no adult supervision and no cell phones!

She will be just fine.

[Computermama]

Oh yeah, she'd be fine. I started babysitting at 11. She can not only call you but easily come find you if she needs you.

[DalesWidda]

My oldest has been babysitting her sisters since that age so I don't see a problem with it at all.

[carriek38]

Yes, I was babysitting regularly for one of my teachers at that age & was responsible for getting my little brother off the bus in the afternoons; I think this is a great opportunity for you to give her some space & let her show if/how responsible she can be.

[bluedaisyma]

as long as SHE is comfortable with it, I see no issues at all

[EmilytheStrange]

I think 10 is old enough to stay home by yourself for short amounts of time if she is a fairly responsible child.

[Only]

Originally Posted by isabelsmummy Yes, I think that is a perfect situation to start introducing the idea of that kind of independence and teaching the responsibility it entails.

My thoughts as well. I don't have a ten y/o but I WAS a ten year old and at that age I would have been fine alone for small amounts of time. As long as you think she's mature enough, can handle it, and she's comfortable with it, I don't see why not.