I have just returned from a brief getaway, and this time, I left my children home alone without adult supervision for the first time. Before anyone rushes to report me to the authorities, I should clarify that half of my children are technically adults—at least according to their identification cards. Therefore, I was within legal bounds.
Nonetheless, having quasi-adult children did not eliminate the stress. In the days leading up to my departure, I found myself losing hair and experiencing a strange unease in my stomach. Nightmarish headlines haunted my dreams: “Irresponsible Parents Meet Tragic Fate in Plane Crash,” “Kids Left Unsupervised Arrested for Snack Theft,” and “Party House Wrecked, Owners Held Liable.” I questioned my sanity!
To provide some context, I often engage in spirited debates with my husband about parenting styles, home decor, and even menu choices at restaurants. However, when he suggested we take a vacation over six months ago, it felt like a battle I could not win. The advantages outweighed the disadvantages: we found an incredible deal on accommodations and airfare, our eldest was approaching 21, and the rest of the kids were mostly self-sufficient (bathroom hygiene aside, which is a perennial issue with teenagers). Plus, our neighborhood watch is vigilant, and the kids were aware that my phone would serve as their lifeline in case of trouble.
As the departure date approached, however, I began to have second thoughts. “My parents left me home alone for a week when I was in high school,” my husband reminded me. I shot him a look that only a wife would understand.
I spent days preparing: cooking, drafting multiple lists, texting neighbors who lived nearby, and issuing stern warnings to my children about the consequences of any misbehavior. If any chaos were to unfold, they knew there would be repercussions.
We finally set off for Myrtle Beach, joined by a few friends who also appreciate a good Happy Hour. Myrtle Beach is a lovely destination, albeit exceedingly hot in August—hence the need for those Happy Hours, perhaps?
Three days flew by, and we made the most of our time, alternating between lounging by the pool and enjoying the nightlife. My kids checked in occasionally, and only one text came in from our neighborhood watch. When I discovered that our home was still standing and no one was harmed, I felt a wave of relief wash over me.
Upon returning, my 19-year-old daughter let out a sigh of relief as she flopped onto the couch beside me. “I’m so glad you’re back,” she admitted. Clearly, the responsibility of being home alone had worn her out. My 15-year-old son excitedly beckoned me over to show me something. “Mom, look at this!” he exclaimed, pointing at the fruit bowl that had seen better days. It contained a blackened banana and a couple of apples that were older than some of my friends. Suddenly, a swarm of fruit flies erupted into the air.
Takeaway: I must remember to add “dispose of rotting fruit” to my list for next time.
Will we attempt this again? Perhaps, but not for a while. I think I need to let my hair grow back before considering another solo adventure.
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Summary:
Leaving children home alone can be a daunting experience for parents, filled with anxiety and second thoughts. However, with proper preparation and trust in their ability to handle responsibilities, it can also lead to newfound independence for both parents and children alike. While the experience may not be repeated immediately, the lessons learned can be invaluable.