How to be an awesome babysitter

Whether you’ve been babysitting for years or you’re just starting out, there are few things you can do to be an awesome babysitter. Here is a quick guide that will help make you the sitter at the top of everyone’s list.

Arrive early - There are usually special instructions that parents like to go over before they leave the house. If you arrive right when they asked you to, they might not have time to give you thorough instructions. Arriving 5 to 10 minutes is reasonable so they can give you instructions and you can ask questions. 

Turn the TV off - Yes, I know it’s easier to turn the TV on. The TV mesmerizes them and nothing can really go wrong when the TV is on - except that the parents won’t keep calling you back. If the parents hear that you got them involved in activities such as art projects or outdoor activities, the parents will feel like their money is being well spent.

Communicate - Make sure you know what the parents expect before they leave you with the kids. Make sure you are clear on what foods the kids can and cannot eat, when bed time is and anything else that you might not know about. Ask questions. You don’t want to have to send any texts or calls to bug the parents when there isn’t an emergency.

Be honest - Let the parents know whether you had a good day with the kids or not. If the kids were naughty, don't be afraid to tell the parents in a kind way. The parents will appreciate your honesty, and if they have a talk with the child maybe your experience will be a little be easier the next time.

Have fun - The parents will listen to their kids. If the kids don’t have fun, they will express that to their parents, and then the parents will find a new sitter. So try to interact and be creative with the kids so they will be excited to see you when you come over.

Photo courtesy of James Emery via Creative Commons