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What is the appropriate age?

27 replies

Teapot07 · 22/11/2025 19:16

I’ve recently reconnected with an old colleague who I used to work with. We’ve been on coffee dates and met up a few times.
He has asked can he take me out in the evening to see a show at 8pm. (Always wanted to see this show) I have two daughters, 14 & 6. The 14 year old is extremely mature. There have been times in the past where I have been in hospital and she has really looked after her younger sibling. (Emergencies only) I do have an 18 year old son as well. But he will be away on holiday. The date is set for next Friday. I don’t really have the childcare for the six year old. I have told my 14 year old and she is pleading for me to go and she will babysit. I know she will be good and amazing at it. It’s just me. I feel so guilty leaving them home alone while I go out and have fun.
I was hoping to get some opinions to see if I’m over thinking it or is she still too young for this sort of responsibility? I’ve never been out at this time before. I’ve usually booked days off work and planned stuff within school hours.
my 14 year old thinks she is ready for that sort of responsibility. But I feel it’s too much to soon for her.
I would be back around 10pm-11pm? Whenever the show finishes. It would be late when I get back. The guilt of going and leaving them home alone is eating me alive. Which has made me not want to go. But my 14 year old is insisting that she will watch her sister. I would love honest opinions if possible please.

OP posts:
Teapot07 · 23/11/2025 08:06

Thank you everyone. I can’t reply individually.
We are close with the neighbours so if there was an emergency she knows to go straight in to next door.
I have an Apple Watch so if she messages it would come through on my wrist.
the show is around 20 minutes from my home. 30 minutes with traffic.
she cooks herself meals because she prefers her cooking as she says. But she knows she’s not allowed to use the cooker unless I am there. My six year old will be 7 in January and they do have a close relationship.
to be honest she is extremely mature.
growing up myself me and my siblings were always left home alone all the time. The thought of leaving them home alone brings back those memories and feelings. So I feel that is playing a big part.
ive never left my kids with anyone I always feel guilty.
but thank you for your advice I really do appreciate it and will consider it.
I was expecting people to side with me to say she is to young but I got the opposite. Now I’m on the fence of actually going. Thank you all again. I really appreciate you taking the time to comment.

OP posts:
IHateWasps · 23/11/2025 20:55

I can’t see any reason for you not to go especially considering all that you’ve said above. I hope that you have a wonderful time.

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