School’s out for summer, and if kids aren’t in a summer camp, daycare, or a babysitter, some parents might wonder, “Can I leave my kid home alone?” Others might consider the legal ramifications of leaving a child home alone. And what age is too young?
At what age can kids be left home alone in Oklahoma?
Like the majority of U.S. states, Oklahoma does not actually have a legal age requirement for children to be left home alone. The state leaves this decision up to parents.
Oklahoma does have more specific laws around abandonment and neglect of children, stating any person who willfully harms, fails to protect, or threatens the safety of a child under 18 could face jail time or fines. People guilty of child abuse could be guilty of a felony.
Additionally, child labor laws in Oklahoma say kids must obtain a permit to work at ages 14 and 15, and can only work certain jobs.
What do other states say about leaving children home alone?
Of the states that have laws regarding when children can be left home alone, the age requirement varies widely…