When the seven-year-old did not return home after school, his parents became worried and called police.

The boy's sister last saw him at a school playground while she was leaving on the bus.

Police alerted CJCD radio station and began searching for the child. Yellowknife Search and Rescue volunteers also helped with the search.

It turned out the boy went to a friend's house after school without telling his parents. The friend's parent heard the radio report and contacted police.

"The child was playing at a friend's place who was not in the inner loop of friends we'd initially checked," said RCMP Sgt. Al McCambridge.

The child was returned home shortly after 6 p.m.

McCambrigde said he's grateful to YK Search and Rescue and the local radio station.

He stressed parents should remind children to tell them if they change their routine.

"It's always important to let your parents know where you are."