It’s Winter Break-Is It Illegal To Leave Kids Home Alone in NY State?

It's winter break and if you are a parent, chances are there are times, not just during winter break when you ask yourself if your child is old enough to be left home alone. Sometimes it's inevitable. But what is the legal age you can leave your child home alone in New York state?

What is the Legal Age to Leave Kids Home Alone in New York State?

New York State Office for Children and Family Services (OFCS) says that no law states a legal age to leave your children home unattended. They leave it up to the discretion of the parent or guardian. However, they say to use proper judgment.

The New York State Office of Child and Family Services Does Have Some Guidelines

There are often questions about the appropriate age to leave children home alone and also what age is recommended to allow a child to begin babysitting. According to the OCFS website, they reiterate that all kids develop at their own rate and they individually have their abilities and needs.

Some kids can be left home alone at twelve or thirteen and babysat at this age because they are responsible, independent, and intelligent enough to do so.  But there is a difference between leaving a twelve-year-old home alone for a few hours and having that same kid babysit for a five-year-old. Ultimately, it is left up to the discretion of the parents.