Use the following guidelines for determining the level of neglect that exists when children are alone without adult supervision.

• Children eight years or younger should not be left alone;
• Children between the ages of nine and twelve years, based on maturity, may be left alone for brief (less than two hours) periods of time; 
• Children thirteen years and older, who are at adequate levels of maturity, may be left alone and may perform the role of babysitter, as authorized by the parent, for up to twelve hours.

*Please note that it is not advisable to leave an older child who has a special condition or disability alone.