The charity has outlined four key factors to consider
Little boy looking out a window.(Image: SHARED CONTENT UNIT)
The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) has detailed four key points that parents should discuss with their children before allowing them to leave the house on their own.
Learning to be independent is an important part of growing up, and there comes a point in ever child’s life when they begin to crave their own freedom away from the family home.
With the October half-term break just around the corner, that might come in the form of trick or treating on Halloween night or going into town with friends.
You might wonder what age your child should be before they can be left to go out on their own.
There’s certainly no ‘one-size-fits all’ answer, according to the NSPCC.
Every child is different, so the charity advises that parents help their kids to build up their independence at their own pace.
It’s also important to check in with them to make sure they feel safe.
The world we live in today unfortunately poses a variety of risks and dangers to the wellbeing of children, but if they’re equipped with the right information and knowledge, they should be able to explore the outside world safely.
There are a few things you should discuss with your child when they ask to go out alone. These are:
- Where they want to go
- What they want to do
- Who they’ll be with
- How far they’ll travel
- What time they’ll be out until
If you feel satisfied with their answers to these questions, then it might be time to loosen those apron stings.
There are also a few basic things your child should know before they go out alone. These are:
- Their full name
- Their address
- Phone numbers for two trusted adults (including the home numbers if you have them)
- How to cross the road safely
If you’re still unsure if you’re child is ready after running through the questions above, the NSPCC has a quiz on their website that helps you to determine your decision.
If you have any further questions about yours or another child’s safety, you can call the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000.
