To leave 16 yr old at home alone for 2 weeks

[FanGurlll]

For various reasons DS, 16, doesn't want to come on holiday this year.
Would you leave your 16 year old home alone?

Agreed Begonia.

I went on holiday for 2 weeks, three days after I turned 18. Just with a couple of friends.

And you're 18 year old has only just started having weekends alone? And you're trying out a week, but he's to drive up to visit during that time?

You haven't done your job. He is an adult. He should he perfectly fine alone.

You haven't done your job. He is an adult. He should he perfectly fine alone

That's a bit of a sweeping statement. My first four children would have been ok and wouldn't have had parties/burnt the house down/lost the dog/adopted a cat/ended up in A&E. My fifth (just turned 18) has either done or attempted to do all of the above, and that's when I've only been out for the day. She has had plenty of independence - is currently on holiday with two school friends, so is creating drama in Ibiza (drama and mishaps follow her wherever she goes). So she has had ample opportunities to become a sensible adult. There's no accounting for individual children, however "well" you are otherwise doing your job as a parent.

My parents let me stay at home alone for 5 days when I was 17 or maybe almost 18. I wouldn’t let a 16 year old stay at home for that long.

My parents left me alone for 2 weeks when I was 17 and I went to school etc fine but had a massive party at the weekend and had to cover a fagburn on the coffee table with newspapers every morning until I left home. I still cover it now when I'm home, over 20 years later, but think they must have spotted it...

I think this thread just reiterated that every child/young adult/family situation is different and there is no set ideal age.
Im now seeing differences, in some areas quite vast differences, in the way my grandchildren are being introduced to different scenarios. Freedom, walking home from school, diet, expectations of chores, independence etc. All my children/stepchildren brought up with same of above, but add in a partner brought up differently then that obviously changes the way their children will be brought up.
The only thing I disagree with on this thread personally, is the general assumption that teenagers left home alone will definitely wreck it! Some might but I’m certain that the vast majority, whilst enjoying the freedom, have respect for the home they live in and can control themselves.