Is It Ever Okay to Leave Your Kid in the Car at the Gas Station/ATM...?

Top 5

227 Votes

No one says you should leave your kids in the car and go shopping, get a manicure and get your hair done! But honestly 95% of parents are guilty of leaving there kids in the car for things like getting money out the ATM. Lock the doors&I dont see the prob

Tasha B added this item on October 22, 2009

Traci D voted on October 22, 2009

Amy W commented on October 22, 2009 - I've left my daughter in the car when I've gone to the ATM if I can't find a drive in one. I hate to admit it...but it's true.

Erin N voted on October 24, 2009

Sapphireyes voted on October 24, 2009

gaba voted on October 24, 2009

Michelle G voted on October 24, 2009

Vicki E voted on October 24, 2009

Vicki E commented on October 24, 2009 - Use the drive up atm! what is more important, your kids or getting cash out.

Amy F voted on October 24, 2009

Jennifer L voted on October 24, 2009

Betsy H voted on October 24, 2009

Libby G voted on October 24, 2009

Kim H voted on October 24, 2009

Wanda L voted on October 24, 2009

Megan F voted on October 24, 2009

Wanda L commented on October 24, 2009 - I disagree. In this time, it is too dangerous to turn your back on your kids even for a second. Too many children are being snatched and killed, and it only takes a moment.

Christine L voted on October 24, 2009

Deniseanddan D voted on October 24, 2009

Linda S voted on October 24, 2009

Jennifer A voted on October 24, 2009

Jennifer A commented on October 24, 2009 - Most people out there trying to "snatch" and harm children are people your children already know...not people in a hurry for work and pumping gas, or getting funds from an ATM. The news media on a few sad stories has everybody hovering and overprotective

Becky D voted on October 24, 2009

Courtney H commented on October 24, 2009 - I never leave the toddler in the car alone. Now if my 13 year old is in the car I will leave them both to run into the 7-11 or inside to pick up some take-out food but honestly I park where I can see them through the window. I'm an over-protective mama.

Mei Len S voted on October 24, 2009

Mercedes E commented on October 24, 2009 - you should never leave kids and in a running car! I saw this one time on the news where the dad went to pay the guy for gas and a carjacker jumped into the car and took off!! the boy was returned later unharmed.

Michelle W voted on October 24, 2009

Renee H commented on October 24, 2009 - Yes I have RARELY left my toddler in the car alone - if he is asleep and I need to park the car right at the door to the gas station (where you are not supposed to park) than I do and lock ALL the doors while car's still running but no one can get in.

Julie N voted on October 24, 2009

Alexandra L voted on October 24, 2009

Michelle W commented on October 24, 2009 - There is a guy who is trying to snatch kids (little girls) who are WITH their parents (one holding the parents hand). If someone wants to take your kids they will try even if your there. Most child abductions are committed by the parents (custody issues).

Meredith C voted on October 24, 2009

Laura S voted on October 24, 2009

Amanda S voted on October 24, 2009

Megan P voted on October 24, 2009

Misty R voted on October 24, 2009

Elizabeth B voted on October 24, 2009

Tamara D voted on October 24, 2009

Audra K commented on October 24, 2009 - Is everyone paranoid? I leave my kids in the car if I have to run into the gas station or return a DVD to those RedBox things. I never take more than a minute. And I can always see the car.

Barbara K voted on October 24, 2009

Elizabeth B commented on October 24, 2009 - I have never seen a problem with locking the doors of my car and running up the the ATM or going in to pay for gas, nothing that takes more than 2-3 minutes. There is a difference between being cautious and being paranoid.

Kim R voted on October 24, 2009

Nancy H voted on October 24, 2009

Kim R commented on October 24, 2009 - Because of news outlets trying to scare the crap out of us, people seem to think there is an abductor around every corner. In Texas, you should worry about the HEAT more than strangers. Roll the windows down, and time yourself - no more than 1 minute

Ann L voted on October 24, 2009

Joanne A voted on October 24, 2009

Jen P voted on October 24, 2009

Brit C voted on October 24, 2009

Margaret M voted on October 24, 2009

Joanne A commented on October 24, 2009 - I disagree. Many parents may do it, but there is a lot that can happen in even a minute or two - overheating, children accidentally operating the car, etc. See http://www.kidsandcars.com to see what I mean.

Jennifer S voted on October 24, 2009

Lisa O commented on October 24, 2009 - I'm with Audra K. and Elizaberth B. I'll leave mine in the locked car while I run up to pay for gas, use ATM, etc, never with the car running and always with the doors locked and the car in sight..

Lisa O voted on October 24, 2009

Sarah S voted on October 24, 2009

Emily C voted on October 24, 2009

Tasha M voted on October 24, 2009

Carma B voted on October 24, 2009

Tracy S voted on October 24, 2009

Sara H voted on October 24, 2009

Michelle S voted on October 24, 2009

June C voted on October 24, 2009

R R voted on October 24, 2009

Joy G voted on October 24, 2009

Olga B voted on October 24, 2009

♥ Sue W. commented on October 24, 2009 - I did this, get cash, run in and buy milk - with the car locked. Really, what can happen in one minute? I don't live my life in fear of the "boogey man".

♥ Sue W. voted on October 24, 2009

Tracy S commented on October 24, 2009 - there are not that many crazies out there....car jackers are not going to jack your minivan...

Joy G commented on October 24, 2009 - Again, another fine line issue! Some times life gets in the way of convenience and you have to get out of your car. Be extra careful. Always keep the doors locked and your car in plain sight. And don't walk too far away that you can't tackle someone.

Deborah P commented on October 24, 2009 - Absolutely not. Never Never Never. It takes 2 seconds for something to happen that will lead to a lifetime of regret. I have read so many of these stories in the papers and it is so sad that people don't listen and learn.

aanikamarie commented on October 24, 2009 - It also depends on where you live, if you live in the city no, but I live in a rural community where I feel completely comfortable leaving my kids in the car for a minute or two. I just lock the doors, and park where I can see the car at all times.

Mommy T voted on October 24, 2009

Danielle B commented on October 24, 2009 - why would anyone take the risk of leaving their children locked or not in the car? pay for gas at the pump, go through the drive through atm, get milk later when they are not asleep. i don't think it is a matter of being paranoid, just cautious!!

Danielle D voted on October 24, 2009

Anne F voted on October 24, 2009

Lyndsey M voted on October 24, 2009

C T commented on October 24, 2009 - I have left my kids,5 and 2, in the car with the doors locked and the keys in my pocket for under a minute. I had my eyes on them at all times and was never more than 20 steps away from the car. I personally don't feel safe leaving them longer than that

Elizabeth B commented on October 24, 2009 - The only time I ever leave my little girl in the car by herself is to return the grocery cart at the store and even them I try to park close to a cart return so it isn't that long. She's in her car seat and I have the keys. For any thing else, no..

Lorinda C voted on October 24, 2009

Kelly M voted on October 24, 2009

J B voted on October 24, 2009

Emm G voted on October 24, 2009

Sheree S voted on October 24, 2009

Sara T voted on October 24, 2009

Sheree S commented on October 24, 2009 - a few years ago there was a man who left his child in the car while he went in to pay for something at a convenience store. his car was stolen with the child inside. he was arrested. it is illegal to leave your child alone in a car.

Hadley H voted on October 24, 2009

Alyson M voted on October 24, 2009

Hadley H commented on October 24, 2009 - I personally don't see a problem with it when done in a safe area and briefly. I am more afraid of a busybody policeman than an abductor. Helicopter parenting creates kids who can't think for themselves.

Jessica P voted on October 24, 2009

Joanne T voted on October 24, 2009

Amanda S voted on October 24, 2009

Leiloni S voted on October 24, 2009

Jennifer C voted on October 24, 2009

Cande C voted on October 24, 2009

Jennifer C commented on October 24, 2009 - I have done it and would do it again. My biggest fear is being arrested for doing it (as has happened in my community). http://freerangekids.wordpress.com/

Krissi H voted on October 24, 2009

Krissi H commented on October 24, 2009 - I won't go inside of a building and leave my son in the car, but I frequently use Murphy's Gas Station (the Walmart gas station) because I do not have to go inside a building to pay for my gas. I park my car as close as I can to the cashier and go pay

Ann E voted on October 24, 2009

Julie C voted on October 24, 2009

Dawn W voted on October 24, 2009

Sarah P voted on October 24, 2009

Dawn W commented on October 24, 2009 - I just took a Defensive Driving class here in Texas. It is actually AGAINST the law to leave your child unattended in a car.

Jeannie J voted on October 24, 2009

Shari G commented on October 24, 2009 - The problems aren't always from kidnappers, car thiefs, it comes from Kids who get into the drivers seat and put the car in gear or from someone hitting the car. It is always better to be safe then sorry.

Jacquelynn B voted on October 24, 2009

Heather Y voted on October 24, 2009

Carrollee H voted on October 24, 2009

Kathy B voted on October 24, 2009

Carrollee H commented on October 24, 2009 - I have done this in front of my house a couple of times when I've left something inside (like his pacifier), and once at the gas station when I wanted my receipt and the pay at the pump was out of paper. I don't make a habit of it and keep the car locked

Kim S voted on October 24, 2009

Stephanie A voted on October 24, 2009

Brittney G voted on October 24, 2009

Vanessa K voted on October 24, 2009

Angel P voted on October 24, 2009

Sarah S commented on October 24, 2009 - I have never left my 12 month old alone in the car for any errands, ever. Only time she may be by herself in the car is when she is in the garage and I'm setting the alarm on my house.

Miranda G voted on October 24, 2009

Phoebe T commented on October 24, 2009 - I have done this. Only for a moment and never where I couldn't see. Have you looked at the actual numbers of times that happens. Your children are 10 times more likely to be injured or killed in your own home. I would never leave them more that a moment.

SOAK commented on October 24, 2009 - Yes. I once asked a police officer at a convenience store if it was okay to leave my kids int the car if I could see them from inside the store. He assured me that was fine. I am not a worrier, things can happen anywhere, even when you are careful.

Laura W voted on October 24, 2009

JoAnn B commented on October 24, 2009 - I would never leave my child in the car alone even for a sec. There are too many conveniences available to ever do this. I have witnessed moms leaving their babies in the car to go onto the store, I call 911 everytime! Dont risk it!

Angela D commented on October 24, 2009 - I am an over cautious parent so I myself have never left my kids in the car to do anything unless there was another adult in the car with them. That being said I think if the doors are locked and you are only a few feet away it is ok.

Angela D commented on October 24, 2009 - My sister did leave her kids in the care one time at the gas station she just went into pay and some guy tired to get into the drivers seat and take off but he was stopped by a family member thank goodness.

Heather M commented on October 24, 2009 - That's why you lock the doors if you do have to run in to pay then nobody can get in the car.

Terri M voted on October 24, 2009

Sharon S voted on October 24, 2009

Kate C commented on October 24, 2009 - It is a flippin' miracle any of us survived growing up. (please hear my sarcasm) The paranoia that surrounds raising children these days is ridiculous. I rode around in my parents car on the floorboards. I know they left us in the car--often.

Jackie K voted on October 24, 2009

Tatiana R voted on October 24, 2009

Tatiana R commented on October 24, 2009 - It is possible to park right in front of our ATM. I can see them at all times and am gone for less than a minute-car is cool, air conditioning left on if needed. Really, I'm five feet away.

Yolanda R commented on October 24, 2009 - Unless your child is over the age of 14 is not OK to leave him/her alone in the car. If you have more than one kid, (2 or 3 tops) as long as one of them is at least 14 and responsible then a jump out of the car for a couple of minutes should be ok.

Yolanda R commented on October 24, 2009 - Also, if a cop happens to drive by and sees the child alone whether in a car seat or loose in the car and he is not old enough to be alone, you will have to deal with child wealfare and that may be one nightmare you want to avoid, like loosing your child.

Melissa L voted on October 24, 2009

Yolanda R voted on October 24, 2009

Melissa L commented on October 24, 2009 - Ok, in real life most of us have done it. I still do it. If I park right next to the ATM machine, and I can see my child, they are going to stay in the car.

Yolanda R commented on October 24, 2009 - To those people who think that everyone is being paranoid about leaving a kid in the car for 5 minutes, I am assuming you are from a small town where people think it could never happen to you, things like that happen to other people.... wise up!

Erica G voted on October 24, 2009

Anne B voted on October 24, 2009

Marren B voted on October 24, 2009

Amy C voted on October 24, 2009

M J voted on October 24, 2009

Karen L voted on October 24, 2009

Anne B commented on October 24, 2009 - I accidentally locked my son in a borrowed car. Middle of summer. Immediately called for help, its 105. Officer gives ME a lecture on LEAVING child in car, instead of getting my son out pronto!! What a [ bad word]! be careful if really leaving a child.

kthartline voted on October 24, 2009

Jana S voted on October 24, 2009

Jennifer S voted on October 24, 2009

Lea S voted on October 24, 2009

yogimama voted on October 24, 2009

Laura N voted on October 24, 2009

yogimama commented on October 24, 2009 - My husband was always out of town when the kids were little. I always had to have them all with me, all the time. Yes, it is OK to make a short trip away from car for a minute or 2 if they are sleeping. Open windows if it's hot or warm, lock doors..

Lisa S voted on October 24, 2009

Lisa S commented on October 24, 2009 - I made an unwise decision and left my 10yr son and sleeping 6yr daughter in the car with the key in auxillary position (to watch a movie-scoobydoo) while I ran in to the grocery to buy grnd beef for dinner. Now I face criminal charges. Don't do it!

D F voted on October 24, 2009

Laurie K voted on October 24, 2009

Ashley T voted on October 24, 2009

Nina F voted on October 24, 2009

Leslie Alane G voted on October 24, 2009

Cheri N voted on October 24, 2009

Leanne H voted on October 24, 2009

Jaimie C voted on October 24, 2009

Mary O voted on October 24, 2009

Brian S commented on October 24, 2009 - I think it is a situation where each different circumstance should be treated as a calculated risk. I agree in most cases kids should NOT be left alone; but every parent should determine the safety of the situation first (ie. the neighborhood you're in)

Kari B voted on October 24, 2009

Megan M voted on October 24, 2009

Kimberley C voted on October 24, 2009

Carol C voted on October 24, 2009

Annie B voted on October 24, 2009

Erin K voted on October 24, 2009

BJS voted on October 24, 2009

bizeemommy voted on October 24, 2009

Beth H voted on October 24, 2009

Tonya D voted on October 24, 2009

Michelle H voted on October 24, 2009

Passionate Person commented on October 24, 2009 - I left my kids in the locked car while I ran in to drop off library books in very nice weather. Someone called the cops and I got pulled over on my way home. The cop said it's not a big deal in this weather, but she had to check me out b/c of the call.

Passionate Person commented on October 24, 2009 - Kidnappings are extremely rare.I read "Protecting the Gift" which is an empowering book about predators and how to avoid you or your children becoming victims. There's a chapter on kidnappings to address the issue. The author emphatically stated it's rare

Passionate Person commented on October 24, 2009 - Kidnappings are sensationalized by the news media.The author said stranger kidnappings are so rare that it shouldn't even be a worry.The author did a great job of addressing real concerns versus hype & telling us what we can do to prevent becoming victims

Passionate Person voted on October 24, 2009

Jessica G commented on October 24, 2009 - I am not proud, but I have left my kids in the car to run in the convienence store. When I get gas, I use my debit card so I don't have to go in. When I go to the bank, I go through the drive thru.

Laurie S voted on October 24, 2009

Rachel N voted on October 24, 2009

Carisa K voted on October 24, 2009

B A voted on October 24, 2009

Angel H voted on October 24, 2009

Shelley B voted on October 24, 2009

Sara B voted on October 24, 2009

Julie D voted on October 25, 2009

Mary D voted on October 25, 2009

Kirin L voted on October 25, 2009

Kelly M voted on October 25, 2009

Jessica W voted on October 25, 2009

Carman K voted on October 25, 2009

Carman K commented on October 25, 2009 - Honestly I do leave my son in the car while I get gas, but I ALWAYS pay at the pump and I NEVER go in a place without him with me even if it is only for a second. It is not good to have him (or any1) breath the gas fumes and I leave the front window down.

Melanie L voted on October 25, 2009

Tina R voted on October 25, 2009

Mona S voted on October 25, 2009

Monica M voted on October 25, 2009

Felicia S voted on October 25, 2009

Felicia S commented on October 25, 2009 - o.k. I am sure the 95% is not a REAL statistic. Don't be STUPID obey the law and keep your child safe DO NOT LEAVE A CHILD IN THE CAR!!!!!!!!!

Lauren C voted on October 25, 2009

Amy L voted on October 25, 2009

Amy L commented on October 25, 2009 - What mom can manage getting 3 or more kids into the house when they're alone & 2 or more of the kids are asleep? Yes, you're in the driveway, but it's still leaving the kids in the car. And returning movies/books via an outdoor drop box counts to. I do it

Suzanne P voted on October 25, 2009

Dawn I voted on October 25, 2009

Tracy D voted on October 25, 2009

Caroline A voted on October 25, 2009

Tamberly G voted on October 25, 2009

Juliann K voted on October 25, 2009

Julie H voted on October 25, 2009

Shannon G commented on October 25, 2009 - There are many drive-up ATMs and banks to choose from. There are ways to avoid leaving your kids in the car. Would you leave your purse in the car? Most people don't. Do you cover your valuables--GPS, DVD player, etc.? Are these "things" more valuable?

Tiffany M voted on October 25, 2009

Rona K voted on October 25, 2009

Marni M voted on October 25, 2009

Future Hockey Mom voted on October 25, 2009

Kristen M voted on October 25, 2009

Kristen M commented on October 25, 2009 - I agree you should plan ahead and use drive-thrus as much as possible. However, I have returned library books to the outside drop box and picked up dry cleaning 10 feet from my parked car and left my kids locked inside. I see them & they can see me.

pikebaylady voted on October 25, 2009

Donna P voted on October 25, 2009

Donna P commented on October 25, 2009 - My 32 year old daughter has been Missing since 5/20/2005 your children are never safe. I have never left my children alone. I thought Brandy was safe living alone. Our children are too precious to think about doing this not in this crazy world . Donna

Amanda K voted on October 25, 2009

Cheryl C voted on October 26, 2009

Cheryl C commented on October 26, 2009 - I would leave my kids in the car if I was only gonna be gone a couple of minutes AND if the dog was with me - there was NO WAY anyone was getting in that car with the dog there!!! Also, I would of course never leave them in a closed car in summer

Karen H voted on October 26, 2009

Dayna J voted on October 26, 2009

Shelli S voted on October 26, 2009

Leslie K voted on October 26, 2009

Nina M voted on October 26, 2009

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Carolyn M voted on October 26, 2009

Shannon M voted on October 26, 2009

Liberty A voted on October 26, 2009

Krista H voted on October 26, 2009

Deb T voted on October 26, 2009

Lisa A commented on October 26, 2009 - I've left my 3 kids in r car for 3-4min a couple x's...our car has an anti theft device that enages the alarm system while the car remains running w/o the keys being in the ignition. If the brake & shifter is engaged w/o keys the car locks up alarm blares

Lisa A voted on October 26, 2009

Misty S voted on October 26, 2009

Patricia K voted on October 26, 2009

Ginny K voted on October 26, 2009

Shawn G voted on October 26, 2009

Tarah J voted on October 26, 2009

Nicole O voted on October 26, 2009

Lee B voted on October 26, 2009

Amy D commented on October 26, 2009 - I bet everyone who has ever been in a car alone with a child has done it, even if it is just long enough to bring a bag up to your house while your child is asleep in the driveway. The risk to the child is the same in your driveway (heat, cold, etc).

Amy D commented on October 26, 2009 - Just less risk of getting caught

Lisa S voted on October 26, 2009

Donetta G voted on October 26, 2009

Katie G voted on October 26, 2009

Donetta G commented on October 26, 2009 - If you are getting out of the car to go to an ATM, or pack groceries into the house or running into a family members house for a quick second in my opinion is is ok to leave your child in the car. Just make sure the temperature is appropriate.

Kelly G voted on October 26, 2009

Tracie N voted on October 26, 2009

Vashti J voted on October 26, 2009

Shawn P voted on October 26, 2009

Wendy B voted on October 26, 2009

Andrea L voted on October 26, 2009

Monchello C voted on October 26, 2009

Daelynn W commented on October 26, 2009 - when my boys were little I usually took them in, but at times they stayed in the car. Drive thru places are best. I see more danger of someone snatching a child if mom is trying to keep up with 3 little ones while trying to operate ATM, or pay for gas

Daelynn W voted on October 26, 2009

Happy2BMom2001 voted on October 26, 2009

Kaari M voted on October 26, 2009

Victoria P voted on October 26, 2009

Leslie G voted on October 26, 2009

Bonnie A voted on October 26, 2009

Audra H commented on October 26, 2009 - Only when my older (8y.o) son is in the car with my 3yo...and only when I'm in constant sight of the car. Doors always locked and windows up, AC on and my son knows the rules. And i never go for longer than a minute or two.

Joanie R voted on October 26, 2009

Clare T voted on October 26, 2009

Rhiannon T voted on October 26, 2009

Tiffany C voted on October 26, 2009

Tiffany C commented on October 26, 2009 - For goodness' sake, folks. Everyone makes their own parenting decisions, but it's not up to you to make someone else's. Why on earth would you call 911 on someone when there is no immediate danger? Stop trying to parent other parents. It's not your right.

Tara W voted on October 26, 2009

Michelle G voted on October 27, 2009

Sharon O voted on October 27, 2009

Lorette L voted on October 27, 2009

Amy voted on October 27, 2009

Nina A voted on October 27, 2009

Christina L voted on October 27, 2009

Reese G commented on October 27, 2009 - Mom was in Wal-Mart walked a few ft away from her dtr in a cart - same aisle - & w/in 3 minutes, dtr disappeared. Store was locked down & child was found in bthrm w/woman who cut her hair put her in boy's clothes &was dying her hair. You decide

Leisa W voted on October 27, 2009

loriibeth voted on October 27, 2009

Lanetta G commented on October 28, 2009 - I don't think it is worth the risk. Glass windows of the car can break. Use a debit card or plan ahead, by having a small stash of cash on hand.

Sonya E commented on October 28, 2009 - In this day and age, I don't think it is a good idea. There are a lot of crazy people out there and you never know what they will do even if you leave your child in the care for a few minutes.

Lisa W voted on October 28, 2009

Lisa W commented on October 28, 2009 - A police officer (in Miami) told me that it's not worth most peoples time or effort to break you windows, especially if you are close. They tend to look for open cars so they can snatch and run. The don't want to be seen.

Mel C voted on October 28, 2009

J P voted on October 28, 2009

Mamaof4 voted on October 28, 2009

Evelyn M voted on October 29, 2009

Eileen G voted on October 29, 2009

Eileen G commented on October 29, 2009 - this was midly amusing to read. its highly unlikely that a child could get out of his/her restraint seat, crawl all the way to the front seat, depress the brake pedal (in most cars these days, to change gear, your foot has to be on the brake pedal)

Eileen G commented on October 29, 2009 - also, for reese g. that story you are talking about has been proven false on snopes.com. sorry...yes, there are child abducters out there , im not disputing that.

Debbie C voted on October 29, 2009

Martha A voted on November 1, 2009

Dawn E commented on November 1, 2009 - It is never okay to leave your children alone...ever! I work at a maximum security forensic facility...I learned how my patients get to their victims...if you value your child's life, don't do it.

Rachel C voted on November 4, 2009

Toireasa N voted on November 5, 2009

Heather B voted on January 14, 2010

Liz K voted on January 19, 2010

Angla R commented on January 21, 2010 - Family friend left her 3 kids in the car to run in the store. Just so happened a CPS caseworker was in the store. SHe was in the store less than 5 mins and ended up getting her kids taken away. SHe got them back but had to report for the next 6 months

Diana S voted on February 20, 2010

Diana S commented on February 20, 2010 - You should NEVER do this! Go through the drive thru ATM at the bank. Pay at the gas pump with a credit or debit card. It is not "okay" to leave your child alone in the car. And, I'm pretty sure it is not legal.

sauci-one voted on August 18, 2010

Alice S commented on August 18, 2010 - My bank does not have a drive through ATM. I have 2 kids 6 years and 6 months. My 6 month old is extremely colicy he will wake up lugging the carseat to the ATM for 1 minute. However, I park 5 feet from the ATM and take the keys with me and lock the door

Jenni C voted on August 21, 2010

Michele D voted on August 21, 2010

Kindred Spirit S voted on August 15, 2011

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Is It Ever Okay to Leave Your Kid in the Car at the Gas Station/ATM...?

Top 5

No one says you should leave your kids in the car and go shopping, get a manicure and get your hair done! But honestly 95% of parents are guilty of leaving there kids in the car for things like getting money out the ATM. Lock the doors&I dont see the prob

Plan ahead, if you need gas, use a charge card so you can do it all from the side of the car. Go a drive thru ATM, a drive thru fast food lane, don't take a change with your most precious "cargo"!!!

I think the ATM is ok, if you can still see the car. I don't do it for anything that could take longer than 2-3 minutes and/or has the potential to take longer than expected, like anything involving a line.

I don't leave them in the car ever. It doesn't matter how long you'll take or the temperature outside, YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT'S DANGEROUS OR NOT. Not to mention the possibility of something happening to the car with them inside, or someone coming out

Honestly, we don't. If the kids fall asleep in the car, there is always an adult sitting there next to them.

View All 117 Items

I always worry that I will get in trouble leaving them in the car but if I can see them and lock the doors what is the problem? I mean does everyone here really always see what their children are doing in their house? We can't watch them all of the time

A child is more likely to die in a car wreck than be stolen from a car, yet many of us drive multiple times daily with our kids in the car. I say assess the risk and follow your instincts. Keep the car in your line of sight and be quick.

I feel that it is more dangerous taking my wild 2 year old into a busy convenience store for 2 minutes to pay for a 1 item than it is to leave him LOCKED in the car where I can see it. In a crowded in and out place, he could be gone before I looked down.

I have been tempted many times but could never justify it enough to actually do it. There were just too many "what if's". If something were to happen, which we have no control over, I could never forgive myself.

What is more dangerous: taking three kids under the age of 3 out of the car in a busy gas station, having each of them wait while you unbuckle the rest, then walking across the busy parking lot to pay or locking them in the car for while you pay.. or pee

I feel it depends on the situation and like with all best practices I would say use your common sense, sound judgement and mommy intuition...have I ever done this? Yes. In my own driveway. ATM or gas station? Hell no...way too public! Plan accordingly!!!

Never, never, never. Things happen too fast, no matter where you are...no "city" or "area" is safe.

With twins, you do what you have to do. I only do things where my truck is steps away. Keep key fob on wrist, doors locked, ears open. Make eye contact when you hear someone coming. Stand sideways at ATM and have finger above panic button on key fob.

Never, too many things could happen. Kidnapping, car hitting pump- causing explosion, ridiculous people talking on cell phone while pumping-could cause explosion. You should never do that, waking your child/children is way better then losing them.

The best advice I was given, as a new parent, was never leave your children anywhere you wouldn't leave a million dollars. Would you leave a million dollars out, in full view, while you "ran into the gas station for just a minute"?

There is NEVER a reason to leave a child in the car, not even for a minute! We do not live in the 50's or in Denmark! If you would not leave your purse on the dashboard, why would you leave your child. I mean REALLY!

i have 4 kids, the oldest is 12,so yes i leave them in the car to run into the 7/11 or the bank,she has a phone and cal dial 911;i have left then all in the car LOCKED at a rest stop at 3am on a trip from VA to MI to pee while they slept fastest pee ever!

ONLY in my driveway. Just to run back into the house to grab something. AND the car is locked. Never, ever at a public place. I don't care how few people are around. You never know what could happen. It only takes a second.

I am guilty. I had done this on occasion ONLY when I see them from where I am at. Until the day I did at the post office and a woman called the cops. I was let go with a warning but told I could have been arrested for child abuse. Devastated me.

Read the question folks. Then think before you judge and use absolutes like "NEVER". The question did NOT say "baby", it said "kid". I say it's perfectly safe to leave your 15-year-old in the car while you go to the ATM. Get real, folks.

If the kids are in sight and you are not far from the car to hear them ...I dont see a problem. I have seen people leave their car , leave the car running, and go into the building for 5- 10 minutes with babies in the car in the middle of winter.

to run in the store and pay for the gas is fine. lock the car and keep your eye on it.

It is legal (at least in our state) to leave kids in the car for up to 5 minutes. My rule is that if I can still see the kids and get to them quickly, I'll leave them in the car with it not running and with the doors locked for a quick, in-and-out trip.

This story is true! My managers wife left her 2yr.old boy asleep in the car seat to run in a store for 2 min. He got out of the seat stuck his head out of the open window & stepped on the handle & closed the window on his neck. RIP Peter .Need I say more

I can't. There have been times when I thought, "Oh what harm could there be? I can see them right there" or "It will just be seconds." But I can't do it just because I wouldn't ever be able to live with myself should the unknown occur.

The law saying you can't leave your child younger than 7 in a car alone (anyone younger must be with someone 14 or older) was made to protect people that lack in common sense.

What if something happened to you? Maybe I'm paranoid--but what if something happened to you and no one knew you had kids out in the car... too big of a chance for me.

Never! I did 27 yrs ago. Paying f/gas. Before c/c option at pump. She got out of carseat, locked the doors, it was -20 degrees (Alaska) & I had left the car running. Took me 20 min to talk her into opening the window so I could get back inside. She was 2.

I'd never leave my kids in the car if it is going to take me more than a couple minutes or if the car would be out of my sight. I've only done so to pay for gas and when I do the car is in sight, the car is locked and the keys are in my hands.

I think it is okay as long as you have a remote lock. Leave the car running with A/C or heat and take your remote off the ring and with you. Lock, do your thing and return asap and be merrily on your way.

If you can keep your car/kids in your sight the entire time (which should be very brief 1-2 minutes) then I think thats pretty safe. You have to be smart about where you are and who you are around!

There are many quick-stop situations where it is much safer to leave our kids in the locked vehicle instead of taking them out. High traffic areas, kids are much safer not out in the parking lots where they could easily get hit by driviers/let go of hand.

I think it's pointless for our paranoia to get the better of our common sense and our trust in other adults. Read "Paranoid Parenting" by Frank Furedi to learn just how small the chances of child abduction are.

You never know what things can happen, NEVER leave your kids in the car, even for a minute!. So many weird things can happen, kidnappers, freak accidents, and much more, a little inconvenience is worth your child's saftey!

i believe if the gas station is not busy & you can see your car @ all times it is okay. we have really bad/cold winters so if i am by myself, which is a lot cause hubby works tons, i will leave them in the car.bad parent,lazy parent? NO!!!!!!!!!!!

I am guilty of that but, I keep the car running and I take my car alarm remote with me. It's on a detachable key chain. And I am never gone more than 2 or 3 minutes. Mind you, my children are old enough to know what not to mess with. Youngest is almost 7.

Only in the driveway to run inside & grab something. w/proliferation of drive-thru everything up to home delivery of groceries & an ability 2 plan, there's really no excuse. Not to mention its illegal & dangerous. *less diplomatic due to char. restraints

There is never a good reason for leaving a child in the car. there are drive thru ATMs everywhere. You can use your card at the gas pump aslo. Think about how hot or cold it could get in the car it could be dangerous to the child.

I would never leave my child alone in the car for whatever reason. There are so many things that could possibley go wrong. Leaving your child alone is just an invite for some sick person to come and take him/her away.

NO, Never. I lived in a nice townhome, in a nice neighborhood. My husband was warming up our car 10 ft from the front door to our home. A teen walked up, jumped in the car and drove off with us wathcing, thank God our kids weren't in the car THAT TIME!!

We live in a small town, pretty safe place, and I will leave my 2 & 3 year old in the car if: I can see it, it isn't too hot or cold, I will be "gone" less time than it would take to get them out and back in. They can't unbuckle themselves, and I lock it.

I bring an extra set of keys so I can lock the door. I've done it while garage saling where I am right there, if she wants to stayin the car, but I lock the car and crack my 3 yr old's window in case she wants me for anything I can hear her.

I usually use a drive up ATM, and if I try to make sure there's always gas in the car for what I need. If I happen to need to get some, I park as close to the door as possible, and dash in looking at the LOCKED car the whole time. Or ask som1 to pay 4 me

I think this is dependent on your circumstance. i try to pump gas without kids, but when I do, I pay at the pump. I use drive thru ATM's. Our redbox is literally 4' from car. I roll down windows & take keys w/ me. I would not leave them w/ car running.

There's never an acceptable time or place to leave your kids in the car. Schedule better and/or deal with the inconveniences. Putting yourself first means making time for YOU, not shoehorning tasks with your kids around.

I've wished I could do that, but I'm usually so paranoid that even jumping out to throw movies in the return slot at Blockbuster has me worried that someone might come by and take off with my baby. So I just wouldn't.

I just think to myself when I look at my daughter, sleeping, or it's raining...where is she safer (not most comfortable)...and could I live with my self if I left one big opportunity for something terrible to happen...

I am careful. I will leave the car to pump gas, but I stay right next to the car and pay with my credit card. I generally look for a drive up ATM. The one exception is taking my eldest to preschool. Then I would ask another mom to watch while I run in.

don't leaveyour child alone in the car-if you weigh the risk vs. the benefit, there is no question on this one.

Well for starters it is illegal! If you are caught doing it you can actually have your child taken away from you. Seems silly, but there must be a reason for the law. It is a hassle sometimes, but why take chances with your precious angel.

Have you lost your mind???!!! It is never okay to leave your baby or child in the car. I think it's criminal. Does anyone live in the world that I do where you are not even safe in your own home.

Umm, yeah try that in Texas and you could end up with a felony child endangerment. Do I think that is right? No, not if you can see the children and you *know you'll be back in less that five, and everyone is strapped in. Ideally you would keep the keys.

My kids are 10 and 6. I have left them in the car to run in the gas station. The doors are locked and it is not running. I have to agreee with others I am more afraid of bored police than something happening to them. (Never when it is very hot)

I would never leave my kids alone. Ever. When my kids were little. I never left my kids alone. There is just no reason to.

I just can't get myself to do it. I visit the post office all the time and only need to run inside the door and drop a package in the box. I think I'm more afraid of "being reported" than I am of leaving my sleeping baby where I can still see her!

I have twins & live 6-12 hours from any family, many times when traveling alone I WISH other people wouldn't think it abusive to leave my babies in their carseats in the car while I use the restroom (most don't have room for 2+ in stalls), etc. VERY HARD!

When I get gas, I have my 8 yr. old lock the doors until I am done! She has the cell phone and knows how to dial 911 in an emergency! To me it is safer then being hit by a car! I live in S. Fl.. Too many people should no longer be driving down here!

If my nearly 5 y.o. is awake and it is a convenience store style station, he comes in. If he is sleeping, I park as close to the door as possible car locked. I use drive-tru ATMs, but when unavailable, I park in front and leave him to play/car locked!

I am guilty of this. My baby was asleep in the car and my 3 yr old was buckled in his car seat in the back with her. I ran in to get something when I came out and some lady had called the cops. I now have class B misdemeanor on my record equal do a DUI.

All you have to do is think for one minute about how you would feel as your car drove away with your little ones in it, or be the mom who needs the store in Adam Alert to know you don't leave your children for a minute. Is it likely "no" but why would you

ive done it at the gas station before, but my i take my key off the ring and take the unlock, lock part with me and just lock the car, he is in his carseat and i am never in there for more than 2 min. and if the line is long then i wont stay in there.

I only leave my daughter in the car at one particular ATM. Even that makes me uncomfortable because I know someone could hit my car with me even standing 4 feet away. It only takes a second for someone to high jack your car even if you're watching.

I have two toddlers so It is twice as hard to run into a gas station. I do leave them but only for 2 to 3 min. I park at a slot that is visible from the door of the gas station. Usually I pay with my card.

I never leave my child alone in a vehicle... working for the police dept opens your eyes to the reality that minutes out of sight make a difference.Too many times a thief wanting only a vehicle ends up with children inside...even 5 steps away in sight

I have left my son in the car while I checked the mail... about a step away from the van. i use the drive up pump for gas. But for the most part I dont leave my son in the car alone. If I have to go in for anything then I unstrap him and take him in.

I think it not only depends on what stop you're making, but where you're making it. When I lived in Phoenix I would not leave my child in the car and walk away. In the tiny town I live in now, I am guilty of it quite often because I actually feel safe.

I am so thankful to live in a small area. We not only leave our kids in the car when paying for gas, we also leave our keys in the ignition. yes, there are great places to live!

Absolutely NOT. One moment of convenience could mean a lifetime of regret. Is that really worth the risk?

No, there is no reason your child should ever be left alone (within a reasonable age). Any child that's younger than, say, 6 years old, should never be left alone in a car. If you can't handle that, then you shouldn't be having kids.

park, go to the atm, swipe your card, enter your pin, process your transaction, put away your $. could you be mugged, car jacked, did someone get in to wait on you sitting with your children. your back has been to them the entire time. is it worth it???

I cannot condemn or condone people for what they do because I (nor you) have any right to judge ANYONE, but if people are so worried about sex offenders why are they not fighting to give them harder punishment, like the death penalty.

It is far more dangerous to take my children out of the van while getting gas then there would ever be a danger of leaving them in the van. I don't leave the keys in the ignition and lock the doors. I drive through the bank ATM. No cart return, though!

When my son was two, I had left the car running while we went in a friends house for a moment. He ran ahead of me, got the door open (first time)cranked the wheel around and put it in nuteral. He went through a fence and could have been hurt. No, Not ok

i don't EVER leave my daughter in the car. it doesn't matter how long you take, anythings possible.

For those who say do not leave your baby and I'm assuming toddler in the car. What age is okay to run into the gas station?

NEVER NEVER leave your kid in the car! And if my toddler falls asleep I either wake her up to carry into the store or convenience store with me to pay for gas, OR I decide to run that errand later when she's not asleep.