How to Babysit a Four Year Old

Babysitting can be a profitable business for young and old alike. It's important to know what you are getting yourself into and what activities are appropriate for certain age groups.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. ASSESSING ABILITIES AND LIMITS
   
   When you first commit to babysitting a four year old, make sure to talk the parents to get basic information on the child, especially if you have not spent prolonged periods of time with them.
   
   Be sure to ask about food habits, whether they are potty trained, what is allowed and isn't (i.e., TV or no TV), and any special needs that have to be attended to.

2. INDOOR ACTIVITIES
   
   A four year old is very into hands-on activities. Their dexterity is advanced and their communication skills allow them to receive and process instructions successfully. Some good activities include:
   
   -Play dough
   -Painting (With Fingers and Paint brushes)
   -Coloring
   -Crafts
   -Racing Cars on a toy track
   -Puzzles
   -Mazes and other writing games

3. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
   
   Four year old also have an amazing amount of physical energy. Outdoor activities can help release some of those wiggles and get them ready for quiet time!
   
   -Flying Kits
   -Go for a walk
   -Write with Chalk
   -Wash a Car
   -Garden
   -Play a yard game like croquet or horseshoes (makeshift with homemade tools or a plastic version bought at a toy store)

4. QUIET TIME
   
   Some four years olds will still take a nap. If the child's parent confirms naps still happen with their child it's helpful to have some quiet time right before sleeping.
   
   -Read a book together
   -Snuggle up and sing songs
   -Have the child sit in your lap and talk about things to be thankful for and things they love
   -Have a small snack while listening to some soothing music

5. SNACKS AND MEALS
   
   Some parents will pack a lunch or snacks, or if you are at their house, will leave food out to be eaten. Other parents will leave you guessing. Some common snack foods for preschoolers include:
   
   -Goldfish Crackers
   -Graham Crackers
   -Carrots
   -Snap peas
   -Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
   -Macaroni and Cheese
   -Applesauce
   -Orange Segments
   -Granola Bars

Tips & Warnings

• Always remember they may be able to communicate, they are only preschoolers. Don't expect too much of them when they get tired or hungry.
• Always double check with parents about food allergies.
• Never leave a child unattended.

[almommabear]

on 1/3/2009 Great info for some first timers! 5 stars

[cyclegirl98]

on 9/20/2008 Excellent advice!

[Vanillatte]

on 9/19/2008 All good advice! I might also add... rest up beforehand as 4-year olds have so much energy! (I know I babysat my 4-year old nephew a while back and he wore me out! ha ha)

[MIghtyDreamer]

on 9/19/2008 These are nice thoughts

[Susanh]

on 9/19/2008 Good ideas for babysitting a four year old.