KidServices Grey-Bruce

So, your little one is ready to take on the big responsibility of staying home alone—what an exciting milestone! But before you leave them to their solo adventures, it’s important to make sure your home is prepared for their newfound independence. Here’s a quick checklist to help you get started:

1. Safety First
Before anything else, do a thorough safety check. Make sure any dangerous items like knives, scissors, cleaning supplies, and medications are stored out of reach or locked away. It’s also a good idea to check that all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly. If you have a home security system, go over how it works with your child.

2. Easy Access to Emergency Contacts
Create a list of emergency contacts and place it somewhere visible, like on the fridge. Include numbers for yourself, a nearby neighbor, and other trusted adults. Make sure your child knows who to call and when. It’s also helpful to teach them how to dial 911 and what information they’ll need to provide.

3. Stock Up on Essentials
Make sure your kitchen is stocked with easy-to-prepare snacks and meals that your child can safely handle. Go over any kitchen appliances they might use, like the microwave or toaster, and remind them of safety tips (like never using the stove without supervision).

4. First Aid Ready
Keep a well-stocked first-aid kit in an easy-to-reach place, and go over basic first-aid procedures with your child. Even a simple bandage application can be empowering for them to handle on their own.

5. Practice Makes Perfect
Before leaving them home alone for the first time, have a few practice runs. Stay nearby or check in frequently to make sure they’re comfortable and handling everything well. These trial runs will help build their confidence—and yours!

By taking these simple steps, you can feel more at ease knowing your home is safe and ready for your child’s solo adventures. And who knows? They might even surprise you with how responsible they can be!