I will never let my teenager roam the streets while I am at work. Not only is it not safe, most teenagers I know will not by themselves do their homework. I'm also concern about what they get themselves involved in, especially when they are in a group. I firmly believe in supervision for any child. Obviously you won't have the same supervision for a 16year old as a 6 year old.

As a parent, you have to make the decision on what's best for you child. Go with what you know will allow you to feel that your child is safe while you are at work.