Things You'll Need:
- Information about the baby’s usual schedule
- Diapers, wipes and hand disinfectant
- Bottles and formula
- Changes of clothes
- Safe place for baby to sleep
- Safe place to change diapers
- Age-appropriate toys
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Step 1
Ask the parents about the baby’s usual schedule. Most babies’ routine includes sleeping, eating and interaction with caregivers. Ask what to expect during the time you are in charge. Babies are people; so they don’t all do the same thing.
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Step 2
Get the bottles and formula ready. Wash your hands. Measure the formula into the bottle and loosely put the nipple on. You can add the water when the baby is ready to eat. A breast-feeding mother will tell you not to feed the baby--just take care of him until the mother’s return. In that case, be sure you have her cell phone number so you can let her know when the baby gets hungry.
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Step 3
While the baby is sleeping, it’s OK to read or do some quiet activity, but be sure to check the baby every ten minutes. Make sure she is sleeping on her back. The parents will tell you what position they put the baby in. Sleeping on the back is now known to be safer. Don’t turn on the TV unless you are absolutely sure it won’t distract you or prevent you from hearing the baby cry.
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Step 4
When the baby wakes up, feed her (unless the mother is breast-feeding). It will be easier to change the diaper when he’s not screaming from hunger. After about half the bottle, sit the baby on your lap (or hold him against your shoulder) and gently pat her back to help her burp. It may take some time, but it’s worth it. Repeat at the end of the bottle.
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Step 5
When changing the baby’s diaper, make sure you have all the supplies right there before you start. Clean the baby’s bottom gently but well with the wipes. Make sure you get in all the folds of the skin. Put lotion or cream when needed. For boys, cover the penis with a diaper so you don’t risk getting sprayed. For girls, make sure there are no feces in the vaginal opening. Attach the new diaper tightly enough so that it will stay closed, but not so tightly that it will squeeze. You should have the correct size diaper. If the baby’s clothes are wet, change them. Put the dirty diaper in a bag. Disinfect your hands.
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Step 6
When the baby is awake, that’s your time to have fun with her! Babies enjoy looking at your face and listening to you talk or sing. Very small babies don’t need much more. Older babies who can sit or crawl love to play with toys, listen to a story and explore the room. Keep choking hazards away. Hold your hand over the edge of sharp table corners to prevent bumps.
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Step 7
Be prepared to give the parents a report when they return. They will want to know what he ate, when she slept and if there were any problems. They will appreciate your good care of their wonderful child!
Comments
DiaSmall said
on 9/2/2008 If mom is nursing you should know how to safely store pumped breastmilk. My kids were exclusivly nursed but did take bottles of pumped milk at the babysitters when I was in college.
No peanut butter or seafood for kids under 2 is a great general rule! (allergys)