4 of 25

Write now Article Tools

Tips on Going into Babysitting
Recommended Training
When you're just getting started in the babysitting business, training can really help. If you have a younger sibling, then you have a great advantage going into the babysitting market. Parents will know when you are comfortable around little ones or not. But if you don't, you shouldn't fret. You don't have to have a sibling to have an advantage.

The Red Cross babysitting classes teach you so many valuable skills that could really come in handy when watching a kid, I highly recommend them. They make a protective parent reassured and impressed and the classes are very affordable. You can generally find them in your local Community Ed handout. In these classes you will learn how to childproof a room, what to do in an emergency, how to correctly change a diaper, and CPR. Plus you get lots of neat gadgets that look really cool.
Advertising

We all know that putting up posters and flyers is a great way to advertise. At your church, community, and at your parents' workplaces potential customers are swarming everywhere. But are you not the kind to go put posters up all around the city or call every parent you know of and offer your babysitting services? Too shy? Don't be afraid! Although these are great methods of advertising, they're not for all. If you're more of the quiet type, the best way to get a job would be to get to know the kids. Have them know you by name and talk to them every time you see them. This way they'll mention you at home and you'll be the first person their parents look to for a sitter.
Getting to Know the Kid/Kids
If the kid can talk, then you need to get to know him/her on a personal level and make a connection with them. You need to interact with them in a way that they enjoy being with you. If the kid can talk, then they can tell the parent if they want you back or not. You don't want a 3 year old ratting you out for texting for hours. You want the kid to be comfortable with you. Know those awkward silences where you just came into the house and the kid is just looking at you and you don't know what to do but smile? Try one of these conversation starters to get the kid talking and end those super-awkward silences.
-What's your favorite color? Mine's....
-What did Santa bring you for Christmas? (If it's the appropriate season of course)
-What is your favorite game to play?
-Do you have a pet? What's its name?
-What's your favorite snack?
-What grade are you in?
-Do you have any friends at school?
-(If their not to Preschool yet) Are you looking forward to going to school?
If you can, buy a cheap kid-friendly game, like a puzzle or fun pop-up book to get the kid warmed up to you.
Beginning Payment
The beginning rate for going into babysitting is around $3 an hour. The rate will vary according to the number of kids, the kid's age, how they behave, how generous the check-writer is at the moment, and how wealthy the family is.
Getting Called Back
Sitters who clean up after themselves almost always get called back. Did the mom just come home and you have millions of games still laid out? Yikes. Next time, clean as you go. And if the kid loves you and raves about you for days, that helps too.
Scheduling
Never over schedule! Keep careful records of who you're babysitting for, when, and their numbers! Don't let yourself forget to call them back or else the job may go to someone else.

Learn more about this author, Anne Parker.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Babysitting basics for beginners?
We want to hear your view. Write now!