Top Ten Tips - Babysitting Basics
Babysitting can be an exciting job, but it will only go well if you are prepared. Here are some basic tips that will help ready you for the babysitting experience and help you to become the sitter every parent and child loves:
- Know Lifesaving Techniques - Learn basic first aid, the Heimlich maneuver, and become certified in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Visit the American Heart Association to find CPR classes near you.
- Meet The Children First - Spend an hour or so with the child or children while the parents are present so they will know you the first time you come to babysit. Talk to them, learn about their favorite things and try to establish a rapport.
- Have A List Of Emergency Contacts - This includes the parents’ contact information, emergency services, family members, neighbors and the child’s doctor. Make sure the parents supply you with information on where they are going and what’s the best way to contact them in case of an emergency. Have your own emergency contacts, as well.
- Make Sure You Know Imperative Information - Discuss imperative information about the child with the parents. Does the child take medication? Is the child allergic to anything? How much and what is the child fed? Is the child afraid of the dark? Ask them to tell you the best way to handle a situation should one arise.
- Set Down Rules - Make sure the parents discuss rules with both you and the children prior to your babysitting. Make sure to discuss meal times, bed times and appropriate punishment for misbehavior. Make sure to be consistent in keeping these rules.
- Establish Authority - Make sure the children know that you are in charge while the parents are gone. You are not there to be a dictator, but you will be firm when it comes to rules and will not allow rule breaking, tantrums or disrespect.
- Break The Children’s Routine - If the children usually watch TV after dinner, suggest playing a game or going for a walk. A break in routine may be a surprise - and a welcome one - for the children. Bring some movies or games from your home, so they have something new to do.
- Do A Group Activity - Whether it’s a craft, baking or teaching them something new, do something together with the children. Children especially like doing something to surprise the parents when they get home. Here are some fun, affordable activities for you and the children.
- Listen To The Children - Be open to their suggestions and thoughts. Don’t plan everything for the babysitting session by yourself. Children will appreciate that you let them propose and participate.
- Give The Parents A Full Report - Let them know how their children behaved and what you did during your babysitting time. Now is the time to pose both questions and concerns. Parents need to know what happened while they were gone.
What are some of the best tips you’ve learned from babysitting?
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I babysit two little boys a few times a week and I agree with most of these. I know CPR and was certified (it’s now expired), but have never had to use it. Knowing that and basic first aid makes most parents less afraid to leave their children, even though most parents don’t know it.
I’m happy to present your post as part of the Happy New Year’s Carnival of Family Life which I am hosting 12/31/07 at Mixed Metaphor.net! Hope you’ll drop by the party and join in the festivities — we have many wonderful entries this week!