State child abuse and neglect reporting laws do not specify the age at which a child can be left home alone. No consistent community standards exist describing when and under what circumstances children can be left alone or in the care of other children. Information about the age at which it is considered appropriate to leave a child alone may exist elsewhere in your local, county or State policies or ordinances that cover this special topic.
You may want to contact your local police department or child protective services agency for information about specific local regulations or ordinances.
If you have concerns that a child is being left home alone inappropriately, you should report your concerns to the Children’s Division. The state of Missouri has trained professionals who can evaluate the situation and determine whether intervention and services are needed. The toll-free number in Missouri to report suspected abuse is 1-800-392-3738. Persons calling from outside Missouri should dial 573-751-3448. The text telephone number: 1-800-669-8689.
Many national organizations have developed resources and guidelines to help parents make decisions on leaving their children home alone while they go to work, run errands, attend social events etc. Listed below are several examples of such guidelines:
