MANCHESTER - Last week, New Hampshire residents learned 9-year-old twin boys were left home alone for months.  The situation ended, after a call from their school alerted the Division of Children Youth and Families.

According to court documents, the twins' uncle agreed to care for the children while their parents were in Nigeria. Police said he would stop by the apartment every few days to drop off food, leaving the boys alone for several days at a time. Fortunately the children are now in the care of their parents who returned from Nigeria once they learned of the situation.

All cases of child abuse or neglect are tragic. Unfortunately, it happens more often than we'd like, inside and outside of the home. According to what we know about child development, it is unsafe and inappropriate to leave young children home alone.  Caring for children is not a part-time job.  It's important caregivers have the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure the health and well-being of the children in their care. It's also important that as family, friends and neighbors, we are aware of the children in our lives and take action when necessary.