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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

to arrange the school runs this way?

155 replies

BonneMa · 07/09/2019 08:16

I have twin sons, year 4.

DT1 just got a place at a local SS. Transport is done with minivan who collects 4 children from a pick up point at 7:45. Said point is 1 mile from home. LA does not fund home to school transport.

I drive DT1 to the bus stop each morning. DT2 is alone at home. He gets dressed and starts having breakfast I made ready for him in the meantime. I am out between 15-25 mins depending on traffic. I then come back home to collect him and drop DT2 off at his primary en route to my office.

DT2 is very mature and can be trusted. He has a phone in case of emergency.

I don't have family support around and have to do it all alone. This set up works for me and both DTs. DT2 enjoys the extra bit of 'responsibilty'.

A few friends where shocked and said this is illegal. I couldn't find anything about the law that states that you cannot leave a 9 year old alone at home for a bit.

Aibu to do what I do? I am a bit worried now that someone might report me to SS

OP posts:
shesgrownhorns · 08/09/2019 16:11

I could quite comfortably leave my dads at home for a bit. Dd one year older is a different matter all together, she will need to be about 35.

shesgrownhorns · 08/09/2019 16:11

DS even !

spanglydangly · 08/09/2019 16:27

@horseridingaddict read the OP it'll help you understand the situation!

It's fine OP, your DT2 actually enjoys it, you're building a confident child who is able to enjoy his own company.

As for your "friends" tell them to butt out. Did any offer to help?

lau888 · 08/09/2019 16:40

There is no minimum age for leaving a child at home alone. The only thing the law says is that you, the parent, remain responsible for their safety. FWIW, it is considered acceptable for a 9 y/o to walk 1 mile to school on their own. I think a 9 y/o is safer at home for a few minutes.

mcmooberry · 08/09/2019 16:49

Aaaagh sorry pressed on the wrong vote, all things considered I don't think you ABU at all, I used to leave my 9 year old and pick up my younger children from nursery, in fact, now I think about it, he was probably 8!!

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