High school senior house sitting?

[Anonymous]

We are headed out of town for 2 weeks this summer and our usual dog sitter is unavailable. We have a trusted babysitter who is headed to college in august. Would you trust an 18 year old recent high school grad to stay in the house and watch the dog for 2 weeks? If you were a parent, would you let your kid do this? My kids are younger so I have no perspective here.

[Anonymous]

It really depends on the teen, OP. My teens are not party types, and they won't destroy your stuff, but they might forget something, especially in an unfamiliar house - maybe forget to lock the door at night, or lock themselves out, or leave lights on when they shouldn't, things like that. So if you think this girl is serious and responsible, help her out anyway by making a highly visible checklist she can consult. And if you have code-entry door, she doesn't need to remember to bring the key. You might also allow her to invite a quiet friend over, because two weeks will get lonely, even if she can go out and meet her family and friends.

[Anonymous]

Nope. Sounds like a great way to party.

[Anonymous]

Yes. I have 18 and 19 year olds. I would let them do this.

[Anonymous]

I don’t see why not!

[Anonymous]

Who says it is a girl? Also if they have a car and can drive, I would let a 16 year old do this.

[Anonymous]

who cares if the wrong light is left on, or a backdoor unlocked for a night? of course this is fine.

[Anonymous]

It so depends on the kid. I’d let my 18 year old but not my 21 yr old —he’s way too social and would definitely have people over

[Anonymous]

Your house is about to be a party house for a few weeks. Jk I’d do it if the kid were a good kid and trustworthy.

[Anonymous]

Nobody can answer this question for you without knowing the kid VERY, very well.

[Anonymous]

Agree it depends on the kid. If you know the kid is nowhere near a party crowd, fine. But if the kid's friends party and they know the kid is house sitting, then the kid's trustworthiness doesn't factor in anymore.

[Anonymous]

Depends on the weeks in August. Most college freshman will be headed to campus sometime during the last 3 weeks of August

[Anonymous]

Hell no

[Anonymous]

NO WAY

[Anonymous]

As long as you set some ground rules. Let him have a party at the house as long as he cleans up. Let him hook up with his girl - as long as it’s not on your master bed. Etc.