Whether you’re a veteran at taking care of tots or a newbie
fresh on the scene, there’s always a handful of things you’ve gotta do prior to
ringing that doorbell. Before you stroll through the front door for your next
babysitting job, take a peek at our list of five must-dos. Super sitter award,
here you come!
1. Make a plan, just in case
Sometimes the unexpected happens, and when it does, a good
babysitter is prepared for all possibilities. Have phone numbers to call
(parents, neighbors and emergency personnel) listed in an handy spot (like on
the refrigerator or tucked into your wallet). Run through scenarios in your
mind and plot out your next step—if Lucy sticks a quarter up her nose, I’ll
call her dad first, then the physician; if it rains, I’ll get the kids to help
me bring the outdoor toys into the garage, then heat up some apple cider.
2. Know the house rules
Even the most lax set of parents have a few rules they want
their kids—and you—to live by while you’re under their roof. Write ‘em down in
a special notebook and take it with you on every sitting trip. Whether it’s
about keeping the kids out of the formal living room or not letting them gorge
on sweets after dinner, you should have these down pact before you arrive.
3. Brush up on emergency basics
Getting your certification for emergency procedures like
first aid and CPR will not only boost your credentials (and fatten your
wallet). It’ll also help you stay calm during a real emergency. Trust me, the
classes are worth it, so sign yourself up at a local Red Cross, community
center or hospital.
4. Tell your buds you’re busy
Chances are the ‘rents you’re sitting for aren’t paying you
to be texting your friends all night. Do them—and your charges—a favor and
stash the phone in your bag for the duration of your stay.
5. Pack your babysitting bag
Last but not least, you’ve gotta get your gear ready to go!
Bring an age-appropriate board game, a movie you loved as a child, dress-up
costumes, arts and crafts supplies—whatever you think the kids you’re in charge
of are going to wanna do.
What’s one thing you always do before you babysit, babes?
BY BRITTANY TAYLOR ON 9/23/2011 4:31:00 PM
POSTED IN be a pro babysitter, babysitting 101, getting started, be a safe sitter, how to be the best babysitter ever