LATCHKEY CHILD Meaning and
Definition
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A latchkey child is a term used to describe a child who returns from school to an empty home because their parents or guardians are away at work. The term "latchkey" refers to the key that is typically hung outside the front door on a latch or string so that the child can let themselves into the house.
This phenomenon became prevalent during the late 20th century when more parents began entering the workforce, leaving their children unsupervised for a period of time after school. Latchkey children are often responsible for their own well-being during these hours, as they are expected to let themselves in, prepare their own meals, and complete their homework until their parents or guardians return home.
The latchkey child, due to a lack of adult supervision, is often seen as independent and self-reliant, gaining a sense of responsibility at an early age. However, there are certain risks associated with being a latchkey child, such as increased exposure to accidents, potential vulnerability to strangers, and reduced emotional support. To mitigate these risks, some parents opt for alternative arrangements, such as after-school programs or enlisting the help of neighbors or relatives.
Overall, latchkey children are those who spend a significant portion of their afternoons alone at home due to their parents' work schedule, taking on adult-like responsibilities and learning to navigate their independence during these hours.
Common Misspellings for LATCHKEY CHILD
- katchkey child
- patchkey child
- oatchkey child
- lztchkey child
- lstchkey child
- lwtchkey child
- lqtchkey child
- larchkey child
- lafchkey child
- lagchkey child
- laychkey child
- la6chkey child
- la5chkey child
- latxhkey child
- latvhkey child
- latfhkey child
- latdhkey child
- latcgkey child
- latcbkey child
- latcnkey child
Etymology of LATCHKEY CHILD
The term "latchkey child" originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It combines two words:
1. "Latchkey" refers to a key that can be used to open a latch key lock, commonly found on old-style doors. The latch mechanism would keep the door locked until the latch key was inserted and turned, allowing entry. "Latchkey" became associated with a child who held the key to their home and would need to use it to unlock the door and gain access.
2. "Child" refers to a young human being, typically someone under the age of puberty.
The term "latchkey child" emerged to describe children who would let themselves into their homes after school, as their parents were often working and unavailable to supervise them. It conveyed the idea of children being responsible and independent enough to care for themselves until their parents returned.
Idioms with the word LATCHKEY CHILD
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latchkey child
A latchkey child is a child who returns from school to an empty home because their parent or caregiver is still at work, typically as a result of the parent's employment situation or other circumstances.
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a latchkey child/kid
A latchkey child/kid refers to a child who returns to an empty home after school because their parents are still at work, typically having a key to let themselves in. This term can also imply a child who is left unsupervised due to their parents' absence.
