Q: We have two great kids, ages 6 and 11. Whenever we go out now to run errands, my older daughter complains that she doesn't want to go and is old enough to stay home and watch her younger brother. I know other parents let their kids who are younger than my daughter stay home alone. When is it OK to leave my children at home alone?

A: As with many aspects of parenting, you have to rely on your judgement to make this decision. It depends on the maturity of your children and their ability to care for themselves. If you believe they are mature enough, try them out on short trips like to the cleaners or the store. Then gradually make their time alone longer and longer. Take some precautions before you leave them alone, though. Create a list of rules and emergency telephone numbers. Go over this list every time you leave and post it in a location that is easy for them to see. Always let them know where you are going and how they can reach you. Caution them not to answer the door before checking to see who is there. Tell them also that they are not to let anyone in the house. Explain that you are trusting them and hope they will not betray your trust. When an older child is looking after a younger one, consider if the older child can handle the added responsibility. Will the younger child listen to directions given by his or her older sister? Make sure the younger child accepts the responsibility to mind his older sister, too.

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