Instructions for Babysitting
While babysitting may seem an easy way to earn some extra cash it is also a challenging and demanding task. Parents are entrusting you with the most valuable people in their lives, as well as their home. With this responsibility comes a set of expectations and if you do not meet the standards the parents require they will simply choose another sitter. Babysitting has many rewards. It provides a unique opportunity to teach and engage children in new experiences, in addition to giving you a chance to make some lifelong friends.
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Instructions
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Ask the parents plenty of questions so you are clear on your responsibilities as their babysitter. Discuss schedules, as well as any medical issues and medication timetables. Get a list of contact numbers from the parents in the event you need to contact them in an emergency.
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Be dependable. In order to gain the trust of the parents and their children you will need to be punctual and reliable. If you are going to be late, inform them as soon as possible in case they need to inform their employer or arrange for back-up care until you arrive. Try not to let them down at the last-minute, not only will you disappoint them and their children, it can have a domino effect in other areas. It can erode trust and damage your reputation.
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Learn as much as you can about child care and children in general. Know how to act in a medical emergency. Be knowledgeable about general health and safety involving children. According to a June 2010 Kids Health website article you should prepare yourself by taking a child safety course before you start babysitting.
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Stick to the children's routine. Children thrive on routine, and like to know exactly what is going to happen and when. Make sure you are aware of any nap times the child may have including if he or she has milk or a special routine. Meal times need structure too and you will need to ask the parents if there are any dietary requirements or a set meal plan.
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Engage the child in activities that are amusing and fun. Babysitters who teach and encourage new experiences with a child are popular with parents, says a 2008 BabyCenter website article. Active outdoor play, if permitted, will encourage the child to burn off excess energy. Indoor activities could include drawing, counting, reading and writing. Teach young children skills such as tying shoelaces or fastening buttons.
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Be aware of the child's safety at all times. Safety should always be your main concern and you should be aware of any potential dangers your surroundings may be hiding, advises Jordan Lane, author of "The Babysitting Bible." If you are outside and using a stroller make sure the child is properly strapped in. If walking, the child should always be holding your hand. Encourage older children to walk close to you and on the side furthest from traffic. If you are taking the child somewhere unfamiliar, such as a public park or playground, check the immediate area for choking hazards and other safety issues. Being alert at all times will prevent nasty accidents.
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Maintain the rules of the house. You may be in charge when parents are away but the child still needs to abide by the rules they have set. If only an hour of television is allowed then stick to this, as well as following bath and bed times. Allowing the child to flaunt the rules may seem like an easy way to endear yourself, but this may backfire with you being perceived as a pushover, rather than a cool sitter, says the Kids Health website.
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Tips & Warnings
Parents appreciate flexibility so try to accommodate them. If they need to do overtime at work or need to return late from appointment always try to meet their needs. This should ensure you get repeat work from them.
Before you begin babysitting for a family know your own limitations, if you believe you will struggle with very young children you should look for families with older children.
References
- Kids Health; BabySitting; The Basics; June 2010
- BabyCenter; Pros and Cons of Babysitters; October 2008
- " The Babysitting Bible."; Jordan Lane; 2002
Resources
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