CHILD SUPERVISION GUIDELINES 

Lack of supervision is one of the most prevalent child neglect problems. 

The following represent minimally acceptable standards for the supervision of children.  These guidelines have been developed by social work professionals.  REMEMBER, they are guidelines only.  There may be situations, even within these guidelines, when it is not safe to leave a child unsupervised.  Parents are ultimately responsible for making decisions about their child’s safety. 

Whenever any child is unsupervised/unattended the following should apply… 

• There must be no emotional, medical or behavioral problems which affect judgment or decision-making skills.

• Child must be comfortable being alone.

• Youth must have a safety plan worked out with the parent/caretaker, which includes:

1. How to access parent or other responsible adult at all times (including knowing the parent/caretaker’s whereabouts and having a telephone number where parent can be reached).
2. What to do in case of emergency.
3. Guidelines for acceptable behavior.
4. Knowledge of emergency telephone numbers.

• Youth must demonstrate the ability to follow the safety plan and to make decisions that reflect concern for personal safety.

 AGE GUIDELINES…

 7 years and under:

 Should not be left alone for any period of time.  This may include leaving children unattended in cars, playgrounds and backyards.  The determining consideration would be the dangers in the environment and the ability of the caretaker to intervene.

 8 to 10 years:

 Should not be left alone for more than 1 ½ hours and only during daylight and early evening hours.

 11 to 12 years:

 May be left alone for up to 3 hours but not late at night or in circumstances requiring inappropriate responsibility.

 13 to 15 years:

 May be left unsupervised, but not overnight.

 16 to 17 years:

 May be left unsupervised for unspecified periods of time with careful discretion.

 It is important to remember that parents/caretakers ARE ALWAYS responsible for their children’s well-being and behavior.  DO NOT leave any children alone in any circumstance (home, automobiles, in parks, etc.) without considering risk and your child’s judgment and development.