The first day of school is fast approaching and parents or guardians might be wondering if youths can be home alone in the afternoons.
The short answer is yes. But be smart about it, advises Tennessee’s Juvenile & Family Courts.
“There is no legal age for children to stay at home alone,” guidance on the courts site says. “Parents are advised to use their best judgment, keeping the child’s maturity level and safety issues in mind. Younger children have a greater need for supervision and care than older children. Obviously, young children under age 10 should not be left without supervision at any time. In most cases, older teenage children may be left alone for short periods of time.”…