HEY, CHERIE!
This might sound like a crazy question, but at what age do you think a 14-year-old student should be allowed to stay home alone? I am an only child who is going into 10th grade (I turn 15 over the summer), and my parents are still married. I know that is a miracle, because at least 60 percent of my friends have divorced parents. One of my parents works outside the house at a regular job, and the other parent has a home business where she makes and sells crafts over the Internet. It is pretty successful and together they make good money.
So at least one of my parents is always home. And even though I am 14, if they do go out, they still get me a baby sitter. They say that it is similar to an insurance policy to have a college student at the house – no need for the student until there's a huge demand, and then they will be glad he or she is there. For example, if I get really sick and must immediately go to the hospital. If my parents go to the city or to a play, they want someone at the house who has a car and is old enough to drive.
Cherie, I don't want to do illegal stuff, but it is humiliating when the baby sitter comes and I am almost as tall as he is. Can you convince my parents to stop this stupidity? I am old enough to be home alone.
– Home Alone
HEY, HOME!
I owe you one. You gave me a great reminder why it's important to have a baby sitter with a car when Jeff and I go out at night. We also have a teen who doesn't drive, and now that I think about it, there are many reasons for him not to be home alone. You have good parents when they realize that it is not an issue for you to be home by yourself until it becomes a big problem.
It is just better to have an adult who has a car as well as a little bit more of the good judgment that should come with experience. The chances of a catastrophic event occurring are small, but you never know. They are only covering their bases by having a baby sitter there for you, and I think it is smart. Someday, you may be that baby sitter for someone else. I hope you don't have to drive a child to the hospital, or call the parent to say the kid broke an arm; however, it could happen.
For now, set up some ground rules about the baby sitter leaving you pretty much alone, and I think you'll be OK. Thoughtful letter. Thanks!
HEY, CHERIE!
I have a summer reading list for seventh grade. I just finished with sixth grade.
When should I have to start those books? I want a break!
– Resting
HEY, RESTING!
You know better than I do how fast you read. I think it's reasonable for you to take June and early July “off,” and get to your books by July 15.
Of course, I'd suggest that you do some reading on your own between now and then, but I'm an adult and an author too, so what would you expect?
Cherie Bennett writes books for teens and young adults. Send e-mail to: family@uniontrib.com or write to her c/o Family, The San Diego Union-Tribune, P.O. Box 120191, San Diego, CA 92112-0191 and send a self-addressed stamped envelope for a personal reply.
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