* Many voluntary groups run a telephone service that children at home alone can call if they are scared or lonely. Check your telephone directory. * There may be a Block Parent Program operating in your community. A Block Parent House, manned by a responsible resident adult, provides a temporary haven for children who may face an emergency such as being bullied, followed or hurt while walking or playing in the neighborhood. Check with your parent-teacher group or local police. * Some youth organizations or local agencies teach survival skills classes for kids 6 to 12 years old who may sometimes be at home alone. They cover handling emergencies and basic safety measures. * Many schools, with the help of volunteers, operate call back programs to inform parents, at home or on the job, if their children are not in school. * Schools, recreation departments, churches, or community organizations like the Boys Clubs or YMCA/YWCA sponsor after school programs for elementary schools children and "drop in" centers for teens.