Latchkey Kids Large numbers of children in this country come home after school to empty apartments and houses. These children, often called "latchkey kids", are responsible for their own well-being and entertainment during these hours. Many working parents find this a source of considerable anxiety and worry. Before allowing a child to stay home alone or care for younger siblings, parents need to be aware of the guidelines for child supervision in their community. Typically, these guidelines take into account a variety of factors, including but not limited to, a child's age, mental, emotional and physical development. It is important to note that guidelines vary from county to county. For example, it may be acceptable to leave children ages 9 to 11 home alone for up to one and a half hours in one county, while a neighboring county requires the child to be at least 12 years old. If you are unsure whether your child is ready for self-care, or meets community guidelines, contact your EAP counselor or school counselor. If your child is ready for self-care, there are many ways you can help him or her have safer and more positive experiences after school. The following are some ideas and suggestions. Safety First Check your home thoroughly for safety risks. Post a list of emergency numbers near each telephone. Assemble a first-aid kit with your children's help. Develop and practice fire escape plans. Arriving Home Require your children to take the same route to and from school each day. Counsel them to come directly home. If possible, have them walk with friends. Establish a check-in routine so a responsible adult knows of their arrival. If your child checks in with you at work, develop a back-up system in case you are unavailable. When Approached By A Stranger Discuss with your children how to respond to strangers. Have children practice saying "NO!" and getting away from a stranger. Don't have children carry bags or other items with their names printed on them, or wear keys in a visible place. Practice Situations Sit down and talk with your children about how they would handle different situations. Have children practice what they should do if:
Discuss and practice as many "what ifs?" as your family can think of. Dealing With Boredom Children often become bored, no matter what their after-school arrangements are. Have your child make a list of activities. Suggest books to read or introduce them to public television. Help them get involved with a hobby or pen pal writing. Dealing With Loneliness Feeling lonely is not uncommon for children who stay home alone, especially after being in a classroom full of other children. Talk with your children about their lonely feelings. Make sure they understand why you are not at home. If possible, arrange for a visit at your office. Have an approved friend come over to play. Leave your child notes in surprise places. Consider a pet if your child is mature enough to care for one. Rules Are Important Establish rules and guidelines so expectations for your children are clear. Set limits on what they can do, such as playing outside or using household appliances. Assign household chores, considering age appropriate tasks. Designate time for homework and play activities. Resources Check to see if your school system, local community agency, church, temple or library sponsors self-care classes for children. Also, call your EAP counselor. He or she may be able to provide further assistance Written by : Michele Ginnerty, M.A.
Additional Resources Project Home Safe - A national education and advocacy program on behalf of children in self-care and their families. Parents can call 703-706-4620 or 1-800-252-SAFE (if outside MD, VA, or DC) and receive an educational packet that includes: "What If I'm Home Alone?", an information and activities booklet that discusses ways children and parents can handle self-care. This project of the American Home Economics Association is funded in part by the Whirlpool Foundation. The National Safe Kids Campaign - A national effort to reduce the number of childhood injuries. To receive a booklet entitled "Safe Kids Are No Accident" send $1.00 to Safe Kids Campaign, 111 Michigan Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20010. Spanish versions available. YMCA Youth Activities Line - 202-833-9563, Staff will speak with you about 4,000 free or low cost programs in the metropolitan area. D.C. Hotline's Phone Friend - 703-223-2244, Monday thru Friday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Provides latchkey children with a reassuring authority figure.
Virginia Phone*A*Friend 703-368-8069, Monday thru Friday from Reading Resources: Home Alone Kids, Robinson, B., Rowland, B., M. Coleman School's Out, Now What? Joan Bergstrom
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