Latch Key Children (continued)

• the safety of the neighborhood, -- can a child safely walk home, or get from the bus to the door without risk?
• are there adults nearby and accessible, always available, and familiar to the child or children? Is there a backup plan?
• how much time is involved? How long must the child be alone? Is there a planned structure of activities planned for the time alone?
• are there siblings? Pets? What are the ages of the siblings?
• is the home equipped with dead bolts, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, first aid kit, evacuation plan, emergency phone numbers by the telephone, flashlights and batteries, money in a hiding place known to the child, lights on timers so that the child doesn’t get home to a dark home in winter, all liquor locked, a cell phone for the child with the important numbers in it, a hidden key or a key left with a reliable neighbor who is sure to be home?
• is there time to set aside every single day for a quiet talk, a review of the day, an opportunity to tell the child how wonderfully responsible he or she is, and a willingness to help the child with whatever is current in her or his life, homework, a problem with another child at school, a wish for a special snack?

Other options

In many communities there are activities for school age children whose parents work and cannot be at home in the afternoon. The importance of looking into these is stressed by our country’s most respected child development professionals. According to James Comer of Yale University, "the period between 10 and 15 years is a time when young people re-examine their attitudes and values. They are being pressured by peers. They need to be protected by responsible adults who will help them examine and counter some of these attitudes."

The activities available vary as does the cost. Some are more popular with children than others, and some are more rewarding, but all are preferable to sitting at home in front of the television. Things to consider:

• many schools have after school programs, and some communities have "Y's" which offer after school programs
• some after school programs are based on sports and playing on teams
• some children benefit from being tutored in certain subjects. Some schools have after-school homework programs
• some children are interested in, or can become interested in lessons in a variety of skills, piano, other musical instruments, ballet, art, theatre/drama, choir, glee club
• some gyms and health clubs have programs for young children
• public libraries have film programs and clubs organized around interests or activities
• many communities have Boys and Girls Clubs
• children can volunteer to do community service
• children can also tutor younger children, an activity which usually benefits the tutors even more than the tutees, and is excellent for both

These programs can vary in cost or are free, depending upon the particular activity and the age of the child. All of them offer the opportunity to acquire skills and knowledge that are useful throughout life. Children who are not learning anything for hours every week are at a distinct disadvantage compared to children who are engaged in enriching activities.