Four things to teach your kids about staying home alone

With summer just around the corner, many parents are considering allowing their children to stay home alone for the first time. An important step in the maturing process, staying home alone can be both overwhelming and dangerous if not handled correctly. There are many ways children can put themselves at risk - even in the comfort of their own homes. Before you leave your kids home alone this summer, be sure to teach them the following safety precautions.

1. Never answer the door. For anyone.

A variation of the classic "don't open the door to strangers," this tip better ensures that no one outside of the family can gain access to your home. Install peepholes at your child's eye level on all main doors, and be sure to teach them how to operate the locking mechanisms. If you think you'll ever have reason to send a family friend or outsider to your home, come up with a password. Share it with your child, and tell them never to answer the door unless the person on the other side knows the password.

2. Know how to operate the alarm system, and keep it armed.

If your children don't know how to use the home security system, it does them little good. Hold a training session and teach them the basics of the alarm - arming the doors and windows, turning off the emergency siren and even how to monitor for fire or carbon monoxide. During this time, also remind your children of how to activate the fire or police alert that comes standard with most current home alarm systems.

3. Don't use any kitchen appliances other than the microwave or refrigerator.

Most parents assume their children won't suddenly develop an interest in cooking. Long days and boredom, however, lead children to try new things and the kitchen is the perfect ground for experimenting. Set ground rules concerning all kitchen items in your home, specifically for the stove, oven and sharp objects. Your kids should assume that the kitchen gadgets are off limits until adults get home. If necessary, prepare meals and snacks for them before you leave home, then leave the food in a room other than the kitchen.

4. Never hesitate to reach out for help.

Even in the safest homes, emergencies may arise. Be sure your children know that it's not only acceptable but encouraged for them to call you or another trusted adult in these cases. If they ever have questions about what's allowed or what could be dangerous, they shouldn't hesitate to ask.

Furthermore, outline serious emergencies in which your kids should first call emergency services like the police or fire department. Opening the lines of communication with your kids will ensure that safety is a subject that's always OK to discuss.

Anxiety is a natural emotion for both parents and children to feel when staying home alone is first considered. Educating your kids on what to do (and not to do) is of utmost importance both for safety and peace of mind. With straightforward guidelines and rules to follow, your children will feel better prepared to be home by themselves. Odds are, you'll feel better too.

Courtesy of ARAcontent