How to Play with the Child You are Babysitting

Remember how much fun it was to play when you were a kid, especially when you had a babysitter? Try to recapture that experience when you take on the challenge of playing with the child you are babysitting.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Toys
• Books
• Art supplies
• Imagination

1. Stay away from inappropriate games, especially anything that involves sex or violence. Instead, steer them toward happy games.
2. Avoid relying on television, videos or DVDs. Instead, read a book or explore the backyard, be as interactive as possible.
3. Recall your own favorite games from childhood: hide-and-seek, board games. Teach them to the next generation.
4. Incorporate arts and crafts. Even if you aren’t the most talented artist, your stick figures will still impress them.
5. Try to keep them active and learning, whether reading a book or playing catch.

Tips & Warnings

• Be encouraging and positive, even if they’re not the brightest kids or the most athletic.
• Play nice, even little kids can get aggressive and competitive when it comes to games. Don’t be tempted to fight back, instead teach them to play nice by setting a good example.

Who Can Help:

• Earn an Associate's, Bachelor's or Master's Degree from the University of Phoenix
• University of Phoenix, degree Programs to Fit Your Life.