The thought of leaving your child home for the first time can send anyone’s heart into a panic. Fear not, here are some tips to help you prep your child for staying home alone for the first time.
The thought of leaving your child home for the first time can send anyone’s heart into a panic. First of all, it can be hard to take that your child is old enough to even consider such a thing. Secondly, who knows what can happen while you are not there to make sure that everything is going smoothly? Fear not, here are some tips to help you prep your child for staying home alone for the first time.
#1. Leave Emergency Contacts
A list of numerous emergency contacts will help ease both of your minds. In the event your child cannot get ahold of you, it is important to have phone numbers of close friends and neighbors that they can call. Also, it’s vital to leave other emergency numbers like poison control and the police department.
#2. Go Over Rules and Expectations
Make sure that you and your child are on the same page, as far as what to be expected while you are away. Are friends allowed over? Which tv shows are appropriate to watch? Do certain chores need to be done? Going over rules and expectations will also help keep your child out of trouble.
#3. Discuss What to do in an Emergency
Prepare your child for how to handle emergency situations. Make them aware of the carbon monoxide detector, the fire alarm sounds, then tell them where to go if either sounds. Also, keep flashlights handy in the event of a power outage.
#4. Leave Appropriate Snacks Out
If you are going to be gone long enough, keep appropriate snacks or precooked meals in easily accessible places. Remind your child that they are to be sitting while eating, to help prevent choking on their food.
#5. Discuss What to do if a Stranger Calls or Comes to the Door
Do not forget to talk about strangers. Let your child know that if a stranger were to call, asking for mom or dad, that it is unsafe to say that they are home alone. Tell the stranger that mom or dad is in the bathroom, and they can have you call them back. Then have your child immediately call you or one of the emergency contacts to make them aware. Also, do not open the door to strangers, or anyone, if you want to be extra cautious.
Do you plan on leaving your old enough child home alone for the first time? What tips would you offer parents in the same boat?
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