Can you leave your 8 years old kid home alone for a couple of hours in Ontario?

According to the Child and Family Services Act in Ontario, children under 16 years of age should not be left alone without adequate supervision. Leaving a child alone can put them at risk and result in serious consequences.

Here are some of the risks associated with leaving a child home alone:

- *Injury or accident*: Children are naturally curious and may attempt to explore areas of the house that are not safe for them, leading to potential accidents or injuries.

- *Fire hazards*: Children may not understand the risks associated with fire and could accidentally start a fire by playing with matches or lighters.

- *Stranger danger*: Leaving a child alone makes them vulnerable to potential intruders or strangers who may harm them.

- *Emotional distress*: Children left alone may experience anxiety, loneliness, and fear, which can negatively impact their emotional well-being.

Adequate supervision:

Adequate supervision refers to the presence of a responsible adult or older sibling who is capable of providing appropriate care, protection, and supervision to the child. The appropriate age for a child to be left alone depends on the child's maturity, level of responsibility, and the specific circumstances of the situation.

It's important to assess your child's individual needs and abilities, and to consult reliable resources or local authorities for guidance and recommendations on child supervision.