THE DANGERS OF LEAVING YOUR CHILDREN ALONE AT HOME AFTER SCHOOL, OR DURING SCHOOL VACATIONS.

Leaving children home alone after school can be risky, especially if they aretoo young or not prepared to handle emergencies. Without supervision,children may be more vulnerable to accidents, such as injuries

in the kitchen or falls around the house. They might also attempt unsafe activities out of curiosity

or boredom, like playing with dangerous objects or appliances.

Another significant risk is the potential for children to encounter strangers, either at the door or online. Without adult guidance, they may not know how to respond to unsolicited contact, increasing the

chances of being targeted by someone with harmful intentions.

Children and teenagers are particularly susceptible to human trafficking because of their age, lack of experience, and often unstable environments. Runaways, homeless youth, and those from broken

homes are at the highest risk, but traffickers can also lure children online through social media,

promising love, money, or better opportunities.

Furthermore, spending long hours alone can lead to feelings of isolation or anxiety in children.

This lack of structure and supervision after school, or during school vacations may also create

opportunities for unhealthy habits, like excessive screen time or poor food choices.

To mitigate these risks, it is important for parents to arrange safe alternatives, such as after-school

programs, or to teach children clear rules for staying safe at home. Regular check-ins and open

communication can also help ensure your child’s well-being when they must be alone.

Please research different opportunities for your child during the summer vacation. The Boys & Girls Club

of the Smokies offers great programs, and they can work with families with income problems. There are

also many Churches having Vacation Bible Groups. The local Libraries provide a variety of program of

great interest for children of all ages.

Please keep your children save!