Do you think it's all right to leave a 7 and 8 year old home alone for ...

If you feel this strongly about it, I would suggest you do two things, in this order:

1. Talk with the mother about your concerns for the children's safety. It does not have to be a confrontational conversation, but one in casual neighborly chat in which you mention that you see her leaving with her daughter every morning for school... and you admire that kind of dedication... "do the other kids mind getting up and going with you every morning?".... and then, 'Oh... I thought you took them with you... aren't you worried that something might happen while you're gone.. .or if you have an accident... or if they get up and get into something while you're gone... etc." In that way, you aren't accusing her. It's as if you are just finding out about it and are off-handedly thinking of things... etc. So she won't see it as a confrontation. If her answers do not satisfy you and if your suggestions are NOT considered... then move to step 2.

2. Contact Child Services in your community and report what is going on. Advise them of the times that the mother leaves each morning and how long she is gone. If they are doing their jobs, they will send someone out to observe for themselves, and then they will take appropriate action.

I believe this is the responsible way to handle it. You are trying to help the neighbor to become a better parent, and, failing that, you are trying to help the children.

- Response by media4u2, A Father Figure, Male, 56-65, Pittsburgh, Teaching

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