Nearly 10 year old

[Purplesu68]

What age would you think it's ok to leave a nearly 10 year old alone for an hour or two during the day, she is very independent has her head switched on and extremely sensible, no I haven't done this not left her alone but just want advice, also what age would you say that I'd no longer need childcare during day. She goes into year 6 in September

[mummy1973]

Hi. I have a dd who is nearly 10. I've only just started to leave her for short times (30 mins Max so far). We did a few weeks of talking through what ifs and ensuring she knew the rules. She was happy for me to go out rather than her having to come along. So far it has worked well. I'll gradually extend the time if needed and she is happy.

[mummy1973]

I made sure she knew who to phone and which neighbours she could go to if needed.
Not sure about childcare all day. Maybe someone with older children will have a view and it will depend a lot on the child.

[DogCalledRudis]

7-8 yo's are old enough. 10yo for sure

[Nocomet]

A summer born Y5 should be absolutely fine. I stopped dragging DD2 to DD1s music lessons about that age and she was happy to be left for an hour or two all of Y6.

[exexpat]

DD is 11, in year 6, and has been happy to be left home alone for at least a couple of years now. She's sensible, can use the phone, and we have rules about not answering the door etc.

[Purplesu68]

Thank you all such great help I can feel relaxed now she is def mature and sensible enough xx
I did leave her other day from 1.30pm till 4.30pm and she was fine watched her programmes on tv she actually enjoyed the responsibility of being on her own xx

[OldBeanbagz]

Reading with interest as i have a parents evening coming up and may need to leave my 9½yo with his 12yo sister (if DH is working away).

I'm sure if i offered them a mid-week treat of iPads/Minecraft they wouldn't actually move from the sofa in the 2 hours i'd be out