How young is too young to stay home alone in NC? What state law says
Parents and guardians are starting to figure out how to keep their kids occupied over summer break.
The rules around leaving kids home alone are pretty relaxed in North Carolina, but there are still a few guidelines to keep in mind. And experts say it’s really important to think about whether your child is actually ready to stay home alone — and to make sure they know how to take care of themselves safely.
Here’s what to know about laws on leaving kids home alone in North Carolina.
When can children be left home alone?
North Carolina doesn’t have any specific laws setting a minimum age for when children can be left home alone, said Krista Stallard, an attorney with Charlotte-based law firm Stallard & Bellof.
However, Stallard said the state fire code includes a guideline: children 8 years old or younger should not be left without supervision.
“It’s also a crime to put a child in any situation where they could be neglected,” Stallard said.
Can children be left with siblings?
There are no state laws regarding when children can be left home with siblings, Stallard said.
She also noted that kids aren’t ready to stay home alone just because they reach a certain age.
“It doesn’t mean that the child is mature enough to care for a younger sibling,” Stallard said. “Leaving a child under the age of 8 with an older sibling is a decision that needs to be scrutinized.”
When are kids ready to be left home alone?
Experts suggest that children around 11 or 12 years old are typically ready to stay home alone, but several important factors should be considered before making that decision, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):
Age: Is your child old enough and mature enough to handle being alone?
Caution: Does your child think things through before acting?
Comfort: Would they feel safe and at ease on their own?
Common sense: Can your child make smart decisions without guidance?
Interests: Are they able to keep themselves occupied without relying on screens?
Safety: Can they remember and follow essential safety rules?
“Once you have decided that your child is ready to take on this new responsibility, take some time to plan and talk as a family to ensure a successful experience,” the AAP says. “First, gather information that your child may need while you’re gone.”
How to prepare kids for staying home alone
If your child will be staying home alone, it’s important to establish clear rules and expectations, according to the NC Department of Public Safety.
Here are some guidelines to follow when leaving your child home alone, according to NCDPS:
Make sure your child doesn’t have access to poisons, alcohol, firearms or any other items that could pose a threat.
Go over fire escape plans and other emergency plans.
Make sure your child knows how to call 911.
Make sure your child knows their address and phone number.
Have a list of phone numbers including how to contact the parent or guardian, doctor, other relatives and trusted individuals.
Check in with your child while away.
Leave your child with a first-aid kit.
Teach children staying alone to never to open the door to a stranger or let them know there is no adult in the house.
Make sure your child knows not to have friends over.
Keep doors and windows locked.
Don’t let your child use heat appliances, such as ovens and toasters, while you’re away.
This story was originally published May 5, 2025 at 6:00 AM.
