If a single mother leaves her young child in charge while discussing her drug use, what is the appropriate action?

In a situation where a single mother is leaving her young child in charge while discussing her drug use, the most appropriate action is to contact child protective services to report this incident. This response is based on a duty to protect the well-being of the child. Children, especially young ones, are not equipped to take care of themselves or manage responsibilities typically handled by adults, which can lead to potential harm.

Child protective services can investigate the situation and provide the necessary support and intervention for the child and the mother. By reporting, you ensure that the child is adequately protected and that the mother can receive assistance to address her substance use issues safely.

It's important to navigate situations involving substance use and child welfare with sensitivity and a focus on the child's safety. Approaching the mother to discuss confidentiality limits or arranging treatment and childcare could be considered appropriate in different contexts, but in this case, the immediate safety of the child takes precedence. Involvement from professional services ensures that the right resources are brought in to address both the mother's substance use and the child's care needs.