How to Become An Awesome Babysitter

Have fun while keeping kids safe.

A great babysitter strikes a balance between responsibility and fun. Knowing how to keep kids safe and keep them busy while parents are away are the keys to success. Before striking out on your babysitting business, be sure that you're prepared for all sorts of situations because kids can be pretty unpredictable.

Instructions

1. Decide on an age group you feel comfortable looking after. Newborns, toddlers and school age children all have different needs, so know which age group works the best for you.

2. Get to know the family first. Talk to the parents and the children to understand their expectations and what the kids are like. Ask them lots of questions about their house rules and about the kids' interests. Let the family get to know you a bit so both parents and kids may trust you.

3. Research the kids' interests and their age group so that you may plan some age appropriate fun for your time with them. Make a plan for your time with them.

4. Dress comfortably and wear something you won't mind getting dirty. Wear an outfit that makes it easy for you to get down on the floor, run or jump around in. properly for babysitting. You can dress the way you want on your own time.

5. Arrive on time or just a little bit early. Don't keep the parents waiting. This is your first chance to show parents that you are professional and trustworthy. Getting there early or on time also give you the chance to get all the necessary instructions you'll need to properly care for the children.

6. Get all the important information from the parents. Know where they're going and how to contact them. Have emergency contacts such as other family members or the neighbors. Be sure to have all the instructions and important information such as the kids' bedtimes, health and allergy information.

7. Follow the parents' rules. Being a "cool" babysitter is great, but you also want the kids to respect you and the parents to trust you. Manage proper behaviors and make sure that the kids eat the right dinner and go to bed on time. Never leave children unattended. Your goal as the babysitter is to keep kids safe, so go outside with them and don't let them venture off somewhere on their own.

Tips & Warnings

• Take a class on CPR and First Aid. Local fire departments, community colleges, hospitals or Red Cross chapters may offer courses to help you prepare for all sorts of babysitting mishaps.

References

• TeensHealth: Babysitting: The Basics