Wow there's a few things I see wrong with that. Around here I don't know the rules per-se but the 11 and 12 yr olds I know are all talking about getting their babysitting certificates. Perhaps it's offered in the schools dunno. I do know that they are supposed to be 12 around here and I can guarantee that sending a 4 yr old to the bathroom (my daughter is 4) alone in a public place is NOT responsible babysitting behavior.
It's all up to you - not the rules if you don't feel she's not mature enough then she's not mature enough for your kids. I realize though that since she's their Mother you need the rules behind you. I suggest you contact a local person who can tell you the rules in your area. Perhaps start with the local schools. Ask a person in the school office who would know about the laws regarding teens babysitting. They are pretty likely to at least know WHO to talk to. If you get no results there call the social services and health department. Just ask them what the regulations for teens who babysit are and if they're required to be certified. That's who I contact for Daycare certification - Social services and health department (they're in the same office for us here). If all that gets no results at all you can call the local police department and ask what the regs are. They of all people should know. Ask around. It's important that you know the rules. I would perhaps report this lapse in responsibility to create a written account of it for further reference should it become a big debate. At the very least record the important details yourself - date, time, names, locations, etc. It may come in handy later on.
Personally it was very irresponsible of the mom and the 12 yr old. Definately would not be happening again if I had any control over it all.
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"Always learn the rules so that you can break them properly." Dalai Lama
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