Written by Allison Ong, M.D., Julie Belkowitz, M.D., M.P.H.,Oneith Cadiz, M.D., Lyse Deus, M.Ed., and Taylor Rosenbaum, M.D., M.A., InjuryFreeMiami.org.
As your child grows older, you may wonder when they are ready to look after younger children at home.
According to the National SAFE KIDS Campaign, it is not recommended for children to stay home alone until they are at least 12 years old. The Florida Department of Children and Families’ minimum age requirement to babysit is 14 years old.1
Babysitting teaches practical skills, but it also comes with risks. Here are questions to consider when judging whether your teen is home.1,4
Can I depend on my teen to supervise others?
Your teen must be responsible and mature enough to watch younger children in the home and especially outdoors. Would your teen frequently leave the room or be distracted by their phone? Would they take the chance to invite friends over? If they are doing a light activity, such as homework, can they stop their activity immediately if a child needs assistance?
Can my teen predict when kids need help?
A teen needs to be able to judge how much help a child needs to complete a task. For example, a young child may need help feeding themselves, tying shoes, using the bathroom, or reaching toys on a shelf. Your teen must demonstrate they are willing and able to do basic childcare if you are not there.
Is my teen aware of safety measures around the house?
Your teen must know how and why you enforce safety around the house. You may be using cabinet locks, door locks, window locks, outlet covers, furniture anchors, or stair gates at home. You may know to turn on the vent while cooking or to keep the washing machine door closed. Teens are likely not familiar with all these measures. Have you walked through the house with your teen and explained what you do to keep everyone safe?
Can my teen manage emotions and conflicts among others?
Your teen is not only watching children, they are leading them. They must respond to emotions such as sadness, anger, or hurt. In addition, children often argue with each other and even with their authority figure. Can your teen stay composed and maturely resolve conflicts? Can they hear all sides of a situation? Can they communicate without yelling or using physical force?
If you think your teen needs development in any of these skills, consider a babysitting class. The American Red Cross offers online and in-person babysitting classes for 11 years and older. These classes may also be offered at school, community centers, or online. Common topics include emergency first aid such as CPR and choking, childcare, child behavior, and activities to try at home.1