Chart Helps You Decide When it’s OK to Leave Your Kid Home Alone

It might seem like your kids will be fine if you leave them home alone, but this chart might make you think twice.

Over the weekend my nine year old niece was telling everyone that her dad lets her stay home alone. While we aren't really positive if she was telling the truth or not, we know for sure that you shouldn't be left alone, both because something terrible could happen and because it's illegal.

I came across this chart on Facebook and thought it might be a good one to share.

When I was younger, I baby-sat my younger cousins when I was 12, so I think it's pretty interesting that this chart says that Illinois law requires a kid to be 14 before they can stay home alone.

Further research tells me that this rule is slightly undefined, as it says that kids under 14 shouldn't be left alone for "an unreasonable period of time," which isn't super specific.

As a parent, you definitely have the final say as to when you think it's appropriate to leave your kids home alone, but having this chart might be a great idea the next time your ten year old claims she can stay home alone and you don't want to argue. Sorry, honey, it's the law.