Summer is here, and with it comes the challenge of balancing work and kids at home. While there are options like day camps, summer camps, and daycare, at some point, parents might wonder: At what age can I leave my child home alone?
In Texas, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think.
Is There a Legal Age for Leaving a Child Home Alone in Texas?
You may need to run errands or head to work—can you leave your child at home while you’re out?
In Texas, there’s no legal age defined by law for leaving a child home alone. The Texas State Law Library states that no Texas law specifies an exact age for this situation. However, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services recommends that no child under the age of 12 should be left home alone for extended periods.
This recommendation is for situations where the child is left for hours, not days or weeks. Leaving a child alone for days or weeks could be considered child neglect.
Factors to Consider When Leaving Your Child Home Alone
Even though there’s no specific law in Texas about leaving kids home alone, there are important factors to consider:
Can they contact you? Make sure your child has a way to get in touch with you at all times.
Emotional maturity: Is your child mature enough to handle being home alone safely?
Safety: Have you made sure your home is childproof and safe?
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services suggests that, while no official law exists, leaving a child under 12 home alone is generally discouraged.
Key Takeaways
Texas does not have a specific law about the age at which a child can be left home alone.
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services recommends not leaving children under 12 alone.
It’s important to consider your child’s maturity level and the safety of your home before making this decision.