That's the exact age I started - of course it was a different world back then and much safer really. There is no law that I am aware of in regards to babysitting. It is your choice. Do you feel she is responsible and mature enough to do this? If so I don't see a problem with it. Perhaps if it was kept to shorter hours (2-3 max) and you or another adult were available immediately by phone if she needed you ~ it would be okay. I definitely wouldn't allow any late night babysitting for a couple of years (maybe 16 at the earliest). The only scary part to me is that she would be able to react appropriately in an emergency. Most 12 year olds reasoning skills are not quite that developed yet. If she happens to be a very mature 12 year old then I don't see a problem. Make sure you discuss emergency procedures with her and the proper way to act in someone else's home. Hey, if she's already willing to be responsible and make her own money I say that's great ... if you really feel she can handle it! Good luck to you!

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