St. Petersburg urged not to rush to leave children at home alone

There is no specific age at which a child is allowed to stay at home without adult supervision. However, experts recommend to teach children to independence not earlier than school age, gradually increasing the time of absence of parents. About this "MK in St. Petersburg" told the head of the laboratory of the Institute for the study of childhood, family and education Julia Evgrafova.

According to the expert, it is better not to leave preschoolers alone, since they are not yet able to assess all possible dangers. In exceptional cases, a child of older preschool age can be left for a maximum of 10-15 minutes, providing constant communication. It is important to take into account the psychological state of the child: if he is afraid to be alone, you should not rush events. This can increase anxiety and even provoke panic.

Before the first independent stay at home, the child should explain the safety rules. He should know by heart the phones of his parents, be able to seek help from neighbors and understand how to act in emergency situations. Adults should remove medicines, hazardous substances and lighters, turn off unnecessary electrical appliances and ensure the safety of windows.

The expert also advised to leave a memo with emergency numbers and simple instructions in a prominent place. To maintain communication will help smartphone and home camera with sound. However, even constant video surveillance does not replace the readiness of the child to cope with unexpected situations.