Leaving an 8 year old at home alone for short periods of time?

[Waferbiscuit]

I'm a single parent without family support close by and this means I'm often stuck at home with my DD. DD is now 8 and a bit more independent.

I'd love to be able to go for a jog in the morning (even for just 30 minutes) but it means leaving DD at home alone.

What would you feel comfortable with - in terms of when and how long you might leave an 8 year old alone? Ever?

I think for most kids it's a bit young. At that age they can still have very vivid imaginations and get "spooked" very easily. Especially if still dark outside. I think the risk of them possibly getting upset is far higher than a fire/you knocking yourself unconscious on a run.

@Shallwegoforawalk

I think for most kids it's a bit young. At that age they can still have very vivid imaginations and get "spooked" very easily. Especially if still dark outside. I think the risk of them possibly getting upset is far higher than a fire/you knocking yourself unconscious on a run.

I agree with this. Even though fire would be a worse case scenario my dd would get spooked been on her own right now, especially on a dark evening.

I think 8 is a bit young, personally. Even a mature and sensible one.

Thanks all for your comments. I think getting a treadmill (or maybe a peloton!) is probably the answer! One day I'll be able to go out alone!