Would any of you do this?

[MyGhastIsFlabbered]

I'm trying to get through C25k and am due to 'run' today. Because of a number of things we've only just got home and the DCs don't want to go out in the cold/dark while I do my training. DCs are very nearly 10 and 7. Nearly 10 year old is very sensible. 7 year old not so much.

Would I be completely negligent to consider leaving them at home while I do my run at the park which is literally 2 minutes from my house? In honesty I think I know I am, but I'm really keen to get out if I can.

How long will the run take?

I think to be honest, I'd let them take scooters or something but make them go with you, unless it's a spectacularly quick run.

Will you be able to go tomorrow instead?

I suspect a bunch of people are about to tell you they'd report you to social services if they knew you. While others will say a seven year old should be capable of running a household by now.

It would be about half an hour. I think deep down I know I can't do it unless I take them with me, but it's not really fair on them, given that it's practically dark already.

I can go tomorrow but the weather doesn't look as good, though no rain forecast so far

Are they happy to and can they use a phone?

I'd say if they are happy, not going to plot to make toffee the moment your back is turned, and can use a phone to phone your mobile if they want you back then go ahead. Make sure they can get out in an emergency, but also know not to answer the door or tell someone on the phone that they're on their own. I used to say to tell people on the phone I was having a bath, could they call back in half an hour.

Give them something that's a bit of a treat (I used to find a bowl of popcorn and a dvd worked well) and they'll probably enjoy it.

DD1 and dd2 or dd1 and ds would have been fine at that age. Dd2 and ds would have decided they were going to do something like helpfully wash all the sheets and I'd have come back to find all the bedclothes (including the clean ones) in the washing machine washing-except what they couldn't fit in, which they'd be washing in the bath. They'd be all glowing with the delight of being helpful.

If they're going to panic at the first noise and call the police then they're not ready.

Sounds like they can stand on their doorstep to shout & get OP's attention. Anyway, I'd do it