stay home alone?

I don't think it's necessarily a set age, but more dependent on the kid's "intellectual" level. I can't remember how old my kids were when I'd let them stay home alone for short times, but they were fairly young, maybe 7 or 8....they knew all the basics-don't touch this or that, how and when to call 911, don't open the door, etc. They were good for the most part, never had a problem, just them sneaking cookies and stuff. I remember when I was a kid in the late 70's, 5 years old coming home from school by myself, making myself a snack, calling mom at work to let her know I was home lol. But I know some kids that are teenagers that I wouldn't trust home alone....just depends.

A child can saty at home alone i think around the age of thirteen! He/she may be quite independent and be able to cook and care for himself/herself! And i think parents should try to leave their children do their own things when they have started to understand things and able to!!!! So that when the situation presents in front of them, the children would be able to stay on their own...

Wow-- 5 is extreme and I would say neglect- I would hope not many parents would leave their 5 year old home alone- My daughter is 10- and she has never stayed home alone- I think you are right- It depends on the parent- and the child and where they live- I think the maturity level of the child is a key point in the discussion. I think by the time a child is 12 they should be able to stay a few hours by themselves.