problem comes up, you can ask that parent for help. Many
sitters start out as parents’ helpers because it’s great practice.
2.
a:
Age has little to do with understanding how to handle children.
Some girls don’t feel ready to babysit until they’re 14. Others feel
ready at 11. The Red Cross recommends that babysitters start at
age 11, but practice as a parent’s helper until then.
3.
b:
If the family is new to the block, it’s likely your parents don’t
know them yet. Before you take any job, discuss it with your par-
ents. Make sure they know the family you’ll be babysitting for.
If you do get a job, remember to write down the time the job
starts and the address, even if you think you’ll remember.
4.
c:
Don’t wait to see what a client will pay you. It’s best for you and
your client if you set a fair price and tell your customer what you
charge before you take the job. Most girls charge $4 to $10 per
hour based on where the customer lives and the number and
ages of the kids they’re sitting. Some babysitters charge a flat fee
for the evening.
answers, continued
5.
c:
How would you feel if you were set to do something fun and
someone said you couldn’t? That’s how parents feel when
you cancel. If an ice show or anything else fun pops up the
day before a job, swallow hard and tell your friend that you’ve
made other plans.
6.
a:
Transportation to and from the job is usually part of the deal
when it’s out of the neighborhood—especially if you let the
clients know ahead of time that you’ll need a lift. But use your
judgment. If for any reason at all you’re nervous about some-
one taking you home, call your parents to come and get you.
7.
d:
You don’t have to accept every job you’re offered. Say some-
thing like, “I don’t think we’re a good fit,” or “I won’t be available,
but thanks for thinking of me.”
8.
b:
Any time you call 911, call the parents immediately after you
call for help. But if a child won’t stop crying, stay calm. Keep
a cool head so that you can do what you’re trained to do.
Never call with a complaint, but remember: it is OK to call
your parents or the child’s parents for help if you really
need it.
9.
d:
You should feel relaxed enough to take care of the children
and yourself. If you’re hungry, get a snack. But don’t make a
mess, tie up the phone, or secretly invite friends over. And
never snoop! How would you feel if someone poked around
in your room while you were out? Respect your client’s privacy.
10.
d:
If a baby falls from a high spot and seems fine, call 911.
She may have internal injuries that you can’t see. If you can’t
stop the child’s bleeding from a deep cut, call 911. Even if you
dislodge an object from a choking child, call 911 to make sure
she is in good health. Though serious accidents rarely occur, if
they do happen while you’re on the job, the clients will expect
you to call 911.
how did you score?
0–3 points
helping hands
Babysitting isn’t for you—yet! Read this book to get a better idea of
what it takes to care for kids. Then start helping out with your younger
siblings, cousins, or neighbors’ children. Eventually, you’ll be ready to sit
solo.
4–6 points
budding babysitter
You might not be ready for infant twins, but you are wise enough to
understand that it’s your responsibility to know all you can. After all,
no one wants to make mistakes when caring for children. If you’re
already a parent’s helper, add to your skills. Check out a Red Cross
babysitting course or other child-care class offered in your community.
7–10 points
natural nanny
You’ve got what it takes to make a smart sitter. Read this book to fill
in any information gaps you may have about caring for children. Take a
safety class. Then get experience. Knowledge can build your confidence,
and practice can build your skills. Before long, you’ll be known as the
best sitter on your block!
what do I need to
know before the
parents leave?
Ask the parents
anything
you’re not sure about. The first time you
babysit for a family, arrive a few minutes early and get the facts you
need. Here are just a few ideas for what to ask.
What’s your cell-phone
number so I can reach
you in an emergency?
What’s this address and
phone number in case I
need to let someone know?
What time do you expect
to be home?
May I have the name
and