Hi FOlks:
I'm a California Dad and I have a few observations.
It not only is bad for anyone of the opposite to bath a person of the opposite sex beyond 5 or 6 but illegal if the babysitter does not meet individual
state statutes. In all cases it is considered child molestation if a babysitter or any adult bathes a member of the opposite sex if they are older than 8ish.
It takes one conversation to a friend, neighbor, someone at school and your life will not be the same after that.
So ladies, be very careful what you think your allowed to do. make sure the children are already bathed before you arrive to sit for them for yoyur own protection.

I know it must be hard to make a decision regarding letting your children stay home alone. I have one child, 9 years old, and he stays home by himself for 3 hours or so until I get home from work (about 3:30 to 6 pm). He's been doing this for at least 6 months now. A lot of people weren't cool with it. A lot of people told me it wasn't good parenting. But not every one is in my position either. And not everyone is in your position OP (and this goes for anyone else who is facing similar decision making). But I did what I know what best, and God watches over my son and our household. I also see that this teaches my son responsibility and following rules (going straight home from school, keeping up with the key, doing homework without someone watching over his head, etc). He likes it for the most part b/c he doesnt have to be away from home so long like he use to be when he was @ the After School program till 6 pm and he can get his homework done more quickly @ home. I like those benefits as well. Don't get me wrong. I do worry. If he isn't calling me by 3:30, I will get concerned. But again, it's sometime we have to do and we do what we have to do at this time.

I hope you make the best decision possible regarding you and your children.

Stay blessed.