Are you ready to take on babysitting jobs? Learn what is expected of you and how to keep the children safe and happily entertained while their parents are away. Learn the six “know-knows” for babysitting. Learn how to carefully and kindly tend to the children left in your care.
The babysitter must know as much as possible about each child she is caring for. Prepare yourself for any special situations with the kids. If you are just meeting them, it is wise to go early and introduce yourself to the children while a parent is still home. Ask the parents for anything out of the ordinary which you will need to know.
- Health conditions?
- Handicaps?
- Behavior problems?
- Food allergies?
- Potty training in process?
- Any special needs?
- Do the children tend to get hyper?
Babysitting Safety Issues
The babysitter must know about the site where she will be working. As soon as you can after arriving, check things out.
- What is dangerous?
- Is there a swimming pool, a bucket of water, kiddie pool?
- Does the family or a neighbor have a mean dog?
- Is the house on a busy street?
- What are the rules at this house? (They will be different from your home or other places you have babysat.)
- Does the parent mind if you play with the children outside?
- Can you play games in the backyard?
- Is there a fence?
- How will you keep the children corralled?
Entertaining Children
Every babysitter makes her job easier when she knows some tricks of keeping children busy and entertained.
Carry a suitcase or a plastic tub with safe toys, games to play, crayons and coloring books, puzzles, and story books to read to the children. Be prepared with some simple surprises, fun ideas and interesting crafts. The kids will love it and will stick close and be easier to keep out of trouble.
Try some outdoor games that may be new to the children or maybe a scavenger hunt, or a treasure hunt. With babies, try finger games like This Little Piggy and nursery rhymes. Girls love dress up and tea parties.
Phone Safety
Every babysitter should know how to use the phones. Learn where the phones are, how they work and have the numbers posted for emergencies. Remember to call 911 first in emergencies.
Write down clearly the contact information for the parents. Know where to get help from a trusted neighbor or adult family member. Learn the address where you are baby sitting, so you can give it to emergency personnel, like firemen or police.
Never take up phone use chatting with friends. The parents may want to call and check on their children.
Handling Emergencies
A babysitter should know what to do in case of an emergency. A first aid class or a babysitting class can prepare you for dealing with the emergency you hope will never happen. Children tend to get hurt easily and often. Many times there is nothing but a scratch or bump. Still, check any injury carefully. If it is beyond your skill call someone for help – call 911 and then a neighbor, your own parent, or the child’s parent.
Of course, the best option is to be diligent and take little or no risks with the children. Keep them occupied so that they don’t get too rowdy or wander off. If they play outside, check to see if they may need insect repellent, protection from overheating, or sunscreen application. In case of outdoor danger, keep the children inside.
Never invite friends or strangers into the house while parents are gone.
In case of fire, get the children outside – then call for help. Stay with them and keep them together. Don’t allow them to run back in for anything.
Babysitter Responsibility
Know that by agreeing to serve as a babysitter, you are taking on a huge responsibility. When you are caring for children, remember that you are at work. You are not there to visit with your friends by phone or text messaging. You are not there to watch television or entertain yourself. The job of baby sitter is a responsibility and you must give it your full attention.
Babysitting can be fun, but it is not a play date. People are depending on you to keep their children safe and occupied.
Most babysitters are well paid, but even if you are sitting for free be conscious of the responsibility you are taking. Little people are counting on you – trusting you. You owe it to them to do the best job you are capable of. Remember also that a capable and friendly babysitter is always in demand.
Babysitting involves six "know-knows." Be sure you know the children you are going to be caring for. Know the place you will be working. Know how to entertain the children. Know when and how to get help quickly. Know what to do in emergency situations and know you are responsible for the children’s welfare. Babysitting is a job not a playtime. Do your best.
Resource : Safety Concerns for Parents / What kids need to know.
