What age is too young for a kid to be left home alone in Washington?

Summer vacation is rapidly approaching, which means kids will be home more, and adults will have to figure out how to keep them busy and safe.

While summer camps and other child care can keep kids occupied and out of the house, that’s not an option for everyone.

So what about leaving your child at home? What’s the minimum age requirement for a kid to be home alone Washington state?

Here’s what to know, and some key tips for being safe and responsible.

What is WA’s kid home alone law?

Washington state law doesn’t specify an exact age when children are allowed to stay home alone.

But guidelines from the Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families advise that children under the age of 10 years old should not be left alone.

Other experts say children between 11 to 12 years old are fine to be home alone for a couple of hours a day. Children between 8 to 9 years old should only be left alone for 30 minutes or so, and only occasionally, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The child’s maturity and ability to respond to an emergency should also be taken into consideration.

Preparing your child to stay home alone

If your child is old enough to be home alone, it is important to make a plan and set rules with them.

Here are some things you should do to prepare your child to be home alone, according to the AAP:

• Place key contact information details on paper in a visible place and make sure your child knows where it is.
• Make sure your child has a way to make phone calls.
• Make sure your child knows when to call 911.
• Have a plan with your child for who they should contact if they need help in a non-emergency.
• Make sure your child knows which, if any, neighbors they can go to if they need help and can’t reach anyone.
• Have a first aid kit that is easily accessible and make sure your child knows where it’s located.
• Show your child where emergency supplies like flashlights and batteries are located.
• Show your child how to turn your house alarm on and off if you have one.
  
  
• Practice using kitchen appliances that they’re allowed to use when alone.
• Have an emergency exit plan in place.