These guidelines have been developed by social work professionals in collaboration with the community. THEY ARE GUIDELINES ONLY. There may be situations, even within these guidelines, when it is not safe to leave a child unsupervised. Parents are ultimately responsible for making decisions about their child's safety.
Whenever any child is unsupervised/unattended the following should apply:
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There must be no emotional, medical, or behavioral problems which affect judgement or decision-making skills.
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Child must be comfortable being alone.
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Youth must have a safety plan worked out with the parent/caretaker,
which includes:
- How to access parent or other responsible adult at all times (including knowing the parent/caretaker’s whereabouts and having a telephone number where parent can be reached).
- What to do in case of emergency.
- Guidelines for acceptable behavior.
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Knowledge of emergency telephone numbers.
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Youth must demonstrate the ability to follow the safety plan and to
make decisions that reflect concern for personal safety.
Supervision Guidelines
| 7 years & under: | Should not be left alone for any period of time. This may include leaving children unattended in cars,playgrounds, and backyards. The determining consideration would be the dangers in the environment and the ability of the caretaker to intervene. |
| 8 to 10 years: | Should not be left alone for more than 1½ hours and only during daylight and early evening hours. |
| 11 to 12 years: | May be left alone for up to 3 hours but not late at night or in circumstances requiring inappropriate responsibility. |
| 13 to 15 years: | May be left unsupervised, but not overnight. |
| 16 to 17 years: | May be left unsupervised. In some cases, for up to two consecutive overnight periods. |
Fairfax County Child Protective Services Hotline 703-324-7400; TTY 703-222-9452
For information on Child Care Resources, call 703-449-9555
Fairfax County Department of Family
Services
12011 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA 22035
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs
This document is available in an alternative format upon request. Please call 702-324-5870. Allow two weeks for preparation of the material.