How to talk to parents as a baby sitter

As a babysitter, it is often intimidating to speak with parents and assure them that their child is in good hands. Parents entrust their little ones with you, and it is your job to make sure they feel confident that their child is well taken care of. But how do you do that?

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Introduction

1. Upon meeting the parents for the first time, be sure to greet them with a big smile and a firm handshake. Just like any job interview, you want to seem pleasant, personable and confident.

2. Open up and let the parents know about your own life. What are your hobbies? Do you attend a church or synagogue? Are you in school? Even a few small details will help them to feel connected to you.

3. Don't be afraid to ask about the hourly wage. You are babysitting to make money and the parents know that. Be up front about what your time is worth. Some negotiation may be necessary to reach a wage that is fair to you and your employer.

You've Got the Job

4. Once you are employed by the family, make sure to ask for thorough instructions from the parents if necessary. Your willingness to learn about the child's rules and daily routine should show the parents that their child will be sticking to their normal schedule when the parents are away.

5. If you need to speak with the parents about the child's bad behavior or any concerns, speak with confidence. The parents need to know that you are not getting walked all over by their child while they are away. You are employed by the parents, not the child. It is in everyone's best interest for you to make the parents aware of any problems you face.

6. When parents return home, give them a quick rundown of what happened while they were gone. Rambling off details isn't necessary (unless they ask) but a short list of highlights shows how attentive and in control you were while watching the child.

Tips & Warnings

• The first time you babysit for a family is often stressful, just as any new job takes some getting used to. In time, the children will come to respect you. Hold firm on your rules. Try new games with the children or fun rewards if they behave.
• If a child can speak, then they can tell parents what happened while they were gone. Avoid long personal phone calls or Internet use, and speak respectfully to the child. No cursing, ever.