What Age Does a Kid Need to Be to Legally Be Left Home Alone in Michigan?

If you have to run to the store or there is an emergency, at what age is it legal in the state of Michigan to leave your child at home alone by themselves?

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Being a Parent

Being a parent in general can be a tough job at times and even more so being a single parent, especially in times of emergency.

There are times when you may need to go to the store for a five-minute trip and your child is dirty and you don't have time to clean them up or get them dressed again. You trust and know your child and know they have a way to contact you and are safe with the doors locked, how old should they be before leaving them home alone?

How Old Should a Child Be When Leaving Them Home Alone?

I'm not talking like in the movie Home Alone where actor Macauly Culkin played the 10-year-old boy whose parents left him in the house alone for a few days. I'm also not talking about leaving your kid at home while you are out drinking. I'm talking about a quick run to the store or over to a neighbor's house for a few minutes.

According to Michigan.gov, a parent needs to make sure their child is mature enough and shows the skills that it takes to handle a situation safely.

Unfortunately, kids mature at different ages so it's hard to pinpoint an actual age number and not base your decision on that alone. If he or she has previously demonstrated responsible behavior, makes good decisions, and feels comfortable about being alone

At What Age Can a Child Can Be Left Home Alone in Michigan?

It turns out there are only two states that have a law regarding how old a child should be when leaving them home alone and those states are Illinois and Maryland. The state of Illinois says a child should be at least 14 years of age. In Maryland, it's a crime to leave any child under the age of 8 home alone.

In Michigan, there is no law that states what age a child can be left home alone. Although Child Protective Services recommends the child to be 10 years old.