If you refer to a child as a latchkey kid, you disapprove of the fact that they have to let themselves into their home when returning from school because their parents are out at work.
[disapproval]
latchkey in British English
(ˈlætʃˌkiː)
noun
1.
a key for an outside door or gate, esp one that lifts a latch
2.
a.
a supposed freedom from restrictions
b.
(as modifier)
a latchkey existence
latchkey in American English
(ˈlætʃˌki)
noun
1.
a key for drawing back or unfastening the latch of a door, esp. of an outer door, from the outside
adjective
2.
designating, of, or having to do with a child or children who receive no supervision at home after school hours, because their parents are away working
Word origin
from the door key carried by such a child
Examples of 'latchkey' in a sentence
latchkey
`I wouldn't call your providing him with a latchkey discouragement.