Georgia’s Guidelines for

Leaving a Child Without Adult Supervision

Children under 8 years old should never be left alone, even for short periods of time.

Children between the ages of 9 and 12, based on the level of maturity, can be left home alone for brief periods of time (about 2 hours).

Children 13 and older can generally be left as babysitters, with the exception of children in foster care. It is not recommended, however, that 13-year-olds babysit infants, small children, and children that require special attention due to medical conditions.

     Other safety precautions to consider when leaving a child unaccompanied:

•     Don’t leave the child responsible for food

          the preparation that involves a stove.

•    Have a neighbor or relative check in regularly or have the child check-in with an adult

             Make a safety plan that includes 911, and rehearse it with your child.