How to Start a Babysitting Job
Before you start a babysitting job, you need to be prepared. Babysitting is not as easy as going to the home, watching the child and getting paid. You must know the basics of babysitting and all of the safety precautions that you need to follow. Babysitting can be rewarding if you are ready to care for children and prepared for any problem that may arise.
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Instructions
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Meet the parents least once before you will be left alone with the child for the first time. The parents will have questions for you, but you should have your own questions. You need to know where the circuit breaker box is located, where a list of emergency numbers is located and how to work the appliances in the home if you will be making snacks or meals. Walk through the house and familiarize yourself with every room in the house and exit doors.
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Meet the child a few times before the first time that you will be babysitting. You need to know abut the child as well. Ask if she has any allergies or other health conditions that you should know about. Find out when bedtime is and if she is allowed to have a snack. Ask the parents if she can watch TV and what shows. Ask if she is allowed to play outside or with friends and when and who.
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Talk to the parents about your pay. If the pay is for one child, you will want to discuss any additional amounts if the child has friends over. Know the details of the pay and what it covers. Some parents expect the child to be bathed, and some will have a friend of the child's stay overnight. This could cost more than watching a child that is in bed sleeping for the night. Note: Talk to your friends to see what the going rate for babysitting is around your area before talking to the parents and agreeing to any pay price.
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Keep safety in mind at all times. Ask the parents how you will get to their house and how you will get home if you do not drive. Ask the parents if you can sleep while the child is sleeping or if they prefer that you stay awake. Note: If you are a heavy, sound sleeper, you should never sleep while babysitting.
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Attend the Red Cross CPR class in your area. A babysitter should know how to give CPR to a child and what to do if the child is choking or stops breathing. If you do not have a local Red Cross, some hospitals or fire stations can help you learn the procedures.
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