GETTING KIDS READY

The following guidelines can help parents determine whether their child can handle being home alone.
Assess your child's readiness. "The child has to be able to follow guidelines and instructions without direct adult supervision. And if something should happen, he has to be able to make a good decision and know how to handle the situation."
Think things through. "Make a written list of guidelines, activities, phone numbers for adult contacts, and emergency numbers.
Role-play situations. "Talk through safety procedures and basic first aid. Then act out how to handle phone calls, a knock at the door, strange noises, a broken window, an injury, or a fire."
Work out a plan for checking in. "Choose a neighbor, family member, or parent for the child to call each day when he gets home."
Set limits on decision making. "Specify what your child can decide and what he has to discuss with a parent or other responsible adult."
Address safety. "Look around and ensure there are no safety concerns in the home or the neighborhood."
Teach the child to be discreet about after school arrangements. "Don't wear a house key on a chain around the neck. That's an advertisement for being alone."
Review all guidelines and procedures periodically and make changes as needed.
Source: Barbara A. Bakos, school psychologist, Mahoning County Educational Service Center