How to De-stress While Babysitting

Play a silly game with the children to ease tensions.

Babysitting can be a great way to earn extra money if you genuinely enjoy spending time with children. When you are dealing with other people's children, it can be overwhelming, particularly if the children are challenging or if you are expected to watch several at a time. Implement stress reduction strategies that you can use while you babysit that will not interfere with the children's care.

Instructions

1. Take babysitting jobs you know you will be able to handle. Never go into a babysitting situation that you think might be too overwhelming for you. For instance, if you are only used to babysitting two children at a time, do not take on more unless you have extra babysitting help. If you would like to introduce more children into your situation, do so slowly, so you can see how you are able to handle more responsibility.

2. Ask a lot of questions so that you know what is expected of you. If you arrive early to your job, you will be able to ask a lot of questions about routines, meals and what to do if the kids get unruly. That way, if you do start to stress out, you will be more prepared. You can even avoid some stressful situations if you stick to the children's normal routine.

3. Give yourself a break. If the children are occupied, take five minutes and recharge. Stay within eyesight of the children and practice deep breathing. Breathe in and out very slowly 10 times and as you do, think of pleasing images. When you are through, dealing with the children should be easier. If not, find another few minutes to walk away and try to breathe deeply again. If a child is having a tantrum, you might need to physically remove yourself from the situation in order to remain calm and go to another room; however, make sure nothing is around the child that could hurt him while he is throwing a fit.

4. Act silly with the children. If the children are getting cranky, suggest a game to distract them. In a pinch, make silly faces and dance together. If they see that you are handling a situation in a laidback way, they will too, which can eliminate some of your stress.

Tips & Warnings

• If you ever become anxious or angry with caring for children, walk away before you act out. This can be especially important if you are dealing with a baby who cries a lot. If the baby will not stop crying and you feel increasingly frustrated, put the baby down in a safe place, such as her crib, and walk away for five minutes. Never handle a baby when you are angry.

References

• City of Phoenix: Babysitting Tips