After-School Safety: Top 5 Tips for Families With Kids Home Alone

Are your kids coming home to an empty house after school? That window between dismissal and your arrival from work may only last an hour or two, but for parents, it can feel much longer. Luckily, today’s families have access to a range of home security devices designed for kids, helping ease concerns and protect what matters most.

Letting your child stay home alone is a major milestone—and it’s increasingly common. The U.S. Census Bureau found that roughly 61% of families with children under 18 had no formal child-care arrangements, suggesting that many school-age kids spend time home alone after school.

Whether you're preparing for the new school year or already navigating daily after-school routines, these 5 tips—paired with the best home security devices for families—can help your child stay safe, confident, and secure.

1. Get Notifications When They Arrive

A modern home security system can help you stay connected to your kids, even when you can’t be there in person. By setting up unique security codes just for your children, you’ll receive instant smartphone notifications whenever they disarm the system after school. This lets you know they’ve arrived safely and gives you the ability to check in if needed.

Many smart locks, such as Kwikset and Yale models, also allow you to assign individual passcodes for family members. When your child uses their unique code, you get an alert, giving you real-time updates about their comings and goings. This feature helps you track their arrival times and ensures you’re notified if anyone else tries to access your home.

2. Avoid Lost Keys and Unsafe Hiding Spots

Encountering issues with door locks for kids can be stressful, especially if they’re young or it’s getting dark. Consider upgrading to a smart lock that automatically unlocks the door when your child’s smartphone is nearby or when they enter their unique code. This eliminates the need for keys altogether and prevents the risk of lost or stolen copies.

For families not yet ready to invest in smart locks, there are still ways to minimize lost key scenarios. Attach the house key securely to your child’s backpack with a lanyard, clip, or retractable keychain, ensuring it’s always with them when they come home. You can also remind them to check that the key is back in its designated spot before leaving school.

Never hide spare keys under rocks, doormats, or other obvious spots. These locations are among the first places burglars check, especially for keys under doormats. A safer alternative is to leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor or family friend who’s often home during the day. This provides an added layer of protection if your child is ever locked out.

3. Monitor Activity With Indoor Cameras and 2-Way Audio

Security cameras aren’t just for catching intruders. Placing cameras in common areas like the living room, kitchen, or entryway allows you to check in on your kids through live video streams and confirm they’re safe. This allows you to provide reminders (“Did you lock the door?”) or offer encouragement without feeling overbearing. Just remember—avoid placing indoor cameras in private spaces like bedrooms or bathrooms to respect your child's privacy.

4. Make an Emergency Plan They Can Follow

Even with the right tools, things can go wrong. Discuss with your child what to do if they lose their key, can’t get the door to unlock, or the alarm system malfunctions. Role-playing these scenarios can help them feel confident and ready to act calmly in stressful situations.

Create a list of safe nearby locations—such as a neighbor’s house, library, or community center—where they can wait until you arrive. Make sure your child memorizes important phone numbers and knows how to contact you or a trusted adult if necessary. These small steps help build independence while ensuring they’re never left feeling unsure or unsafe.

5. Deter Intruders With Smart Automations

Coming home to a dark, empty house can be unsettling for kids and also signals to others that no adults are present. Use smart plugs or bulbs connected to a smartphone app to schedule lamps or porch lights to turn on before your child arrives. This simple step improves visibility for your child and gives the impression someone is already home, which can deter would-be intruders.

Additionally, teach your child to re-arm the security system in "Stay" mode once inside and to double-check that doors are locked and windows are shut. Reinforcing these habits builds a strong foundation for home security awareness as they grow older.

Protect What Matters Most

Helping your child safely navigate being home alone requires the right combination of preparation and technology. Brinks Home™ offers professionally installed smart locks, cameras, and 24/7 professionally monitored security systems to give families peace of mind when they can’t be there in person. Contact us today for a free quote.