Child looking after sibling

[theworriedone]

Hi

What age did you start leaving your teen with a younger sibling?

My sons are 13 and 8, 13 year old very sensible and capable. Would know what to do in an emergency - close to neighbours etc. 8 year old typical small boy . Would you leave them for the occasional short stint?

Depends if you trust them to not start bickering and fighting! I'd leave DD with my youngest DS (same ages) as they never fight but would not leave my two boys together as I couldn't trust them-90% of the time they are great but they regularly blow during the other 10%!

I was 10 when I was left with my brother, who had autism

I agree with MsJolly. We leave our kids in certain combinations and not others for the same reason.

If your DC don't fight OP I would do it, but perhaps check that a neighbour is home first. Our neighbours and I regularly call to check if someone will be at home for the next hour or so in case of emergency. No obligation to check in on the children but the kids, especially the younger child, know that an adult is nearby if needed.