The law in our state allows an 8 year old to be left alone
, however we do not leave DS9 home alone. I think you really have to look at the individual child and the situation. For example, not infrequently, DS9 makes impulsive choices. He also hasn't quite mastered taking responsibility for his actions without making excuses. These are red flags to me that he's not ready. I would imagine when he's 11 or 12, we'll start talking about it as we see him able to take on more responsibility, but that's just speculation here.
