Leaving your child alone after school until you return from work may sound like a good plan, but there are some strong reasons why it is not such a great idea.

Not Good for Children

Research shows that children are at the highest risk during the hours after school. This is the time of day when juvenile crimes triple and kids are more likely to participate in risky behavior.

However, even if your unsupervised children are not getting into trouble, they are often at home eating, playing games or watching television…and not benefiting much from the time they spent alone.

It Effects You At Work

While worries about unsupervised children put pressure on families, they also have been found to even effect your work.

Recent polls show that 87 percent of working moms say the hours after school are when they are most worried about their child’s safety, and this stress can cause distraction that causes lower productivity and higher sick days. In fact, over 80 percent of employees with kids miss some work because of childcare issues.

There is Another Way

There are other ways to manage this after school time better. Here are three suggestions to help you find a better alternative to the children’s self care:

1. Arrange a swap. Find another parent in your area who is home when you are not. Arrange to watch their kids at a time when they need it and have them watch your kids after school.

2. Look for After School Programs. Many churches and schools have great after school programs for kids that are fun and engaging.

3. Look Online for Help. There are some great online sites that match parents with affordable babysitters in their local area.

Take steps to make a plan not to leave your children alone after school. Then there will be no more worries after the last school bell rings.

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