Which of the following does NOT represent a basis for a child to be placed in protective care?

In the context of child protective services, a child placed in protective care is typically done so to ensure their safety and well-being. Among the options presented, when a child is left unattended for a reasonable amount of time, it does not inherently pose an immediate risk to the child, as long as appropriate supervision measures are in place.

In contrast, abandonment, running away, and living under a harmful caretaker are scenarios that clearly indicate the child is in a dangerous situation. Abandonment suggests that the child has been deserted without any means of care or support. Running away often indicates that the child feels unsafe at home or is escaping a harmful environment. A harmful caretaker may expose the child to abuse or neglect, creating a dire need for protective intervention.

Thus, leaving a child unattended for a reasonable duration, such as during the day while a parent runs errands, does not automatically qualify as a basis for protective care unless additional circumstances indicate unsafe conditions. This understanding highlights that not every situation of a child being left alone qualifies as neglect that necessitates protective services involvement.