5 Things Every First-Time Babysitter Needs To Know
Being a babysitter is actually one of the most important jobs in the world, a child’s parents are trusting you to look after what is most precious to them. If you get it wrong t best you’ll find yourself unable to work in childcare again, at worst, you could face criminal charges!
And yet, thousands of people work with children and babysit because it is such a rewarding and enjoyable experience. You simply need to know the right steps to ensure your first babysitting role goes smoothly:
1. Know Your Own Level
Babies can be exceptionally demanding. Sure, they’re very cute and fun, but they also need feeding and changing, and they like to cry. If this is your first time it’s best to know your level of expertise and take on a short job.
That will make it easier to cope with any issues and build your confidence. If you prefer you can join a reputable nanny services agency and work for them, which gives you all the backup you need if anything does go wrong.
2. Prepare First
Before you go to your first babysitting job get prepared. Know the age of the baby or child you’re looking after and get some material ready in advance. This will help to ensure you can keep them amused if they are awake.
It will also make you feel more confident about handling them properly.
3. Have Contact Information
It is essential that you have all the contact information you need in case this is an issue. It’s not enough to know the parents are going for drinks. If they will be uncontactable you need to know who else you should call in an emergency.
Establish all the relevant numbers before you start babysitting and have them recorded where you can get to them easily, this will make it easier to resolve any issue if it arises, without panicking.
4. Stay Watchful
Even when a baby is sleeping there can be issues, this is why it is important to stay vigilant at all times. You’re performing a responsible and important job, this is not an opportunity to invite all your friends around and have a party.
By being vigilant you’ll be aware of any issues before they happen, or as soon as they do, allowing you to take the appropriate action.
Even a sleeping baby can encounter issues with breathing, being aware means you’ll be able to handle any situation.
5. Respect The Rules
The parents will almost certainly have left you some guidelines or simply assumed that you will respect their house while they are out. It is essential that you abide by their written, or unwritten, rules.
This will ensure that they know you take your babysitting role seriously and they’ll have confidence leaving their child with you.
Don’t forget, getting it right is more than just satisfying, it will give you the opportunity to do more babysitting in the future. This is especially important if you want to have a career in childcare, you can’t start too early!
