Although there is no set age at which a child can be left home alone, there are guides parents can use to help know if their child is physically, mentally and emotionally ready for this type of independence. Although most states do not have laws about leaving children home alone, some states have rules on child supervision. Children who are independent, responsible and intelligent often can be left alone at a much earlier age than those who are not. As the New York State Office of Child & Family Services points out, some children are ready to be left alone as early as 12 or 13 years of age, while some teenagers are still too irresponsible to stay home without supervision. Another consideration is the amount of time a child will.be alone and whether they will have to look after another child. Some children can be left alone only an hour or two while others of the same age may be able to take care of themselves all day. There is no set age at which a child can safely be left alone because children mature at different rates. Parents should consider whether their children are physically and mentally able to care for themselves, whether they normally follow rules and are capable of making good decisions. Parents can help ensure their children are able to stay home alone by having a safety plan in place in the home. The child should be familiar with this plan and able to follow it. Also, leave children alone for short trial periods at first to see how well they handle the responsibility. Child Protective Services may investigate a situation where a child between the ages of 6 and 9 is left alone for more than three hours. The agency will step in when children of any age are left alone and it is not clear when the parent will return. Children who are left alone should know their address and phone number and how to contact them and contact information for trusted neighbors or nearby adult family members.