by ailiina

Created on: November 07, 2009

When I was thirteen even before I started babysitting I took a babysitting class which was one of the Red Cross certification classes that were offered to the Guam Girl Scouts. It was about two or three days long and even though I don't remember everything that they taught us within those few days I do remember the importance of being prepared when dealing with children. There are a few things that I think are very important for a babysitter to have, one of the things that I always had when I was babysitting was a First Aid Kit which should include:

Disposable gloves

Hand wipes

Gauze pads

Bandages

Small flashlight

Adhesive tape

Scissors

Tweezers

Face mask

Zip-lock bags

Cold pack

Batteries for flashlight

Gloves

etc

It would also be wise to know how to do CPR, and other first aid methods in case of emergencies. Also I used to bring a few things for the children that I was babysitting. For example:

Coloring Books

Crayons

Bubbles

Play dough

Chalk

Crafts

Extra Food

Movies

Etc.

Pretty much anything and everything that can keep the children entertained so that they didn't feel like they were bored and also to ensure that they had fun while you were there. I also used to ask the parents if I could take the children out on little field trips like out to the movies, the pool, to the mall or to the zoo. Places that they would enjoy. Also make sure if you are babysitting more than one child that you make it entertaining for all of them, especially if you take them out on little field trips.

Making sure the children are happy and having a good time is very important it also helps to get another babysitting gig later on down the road. Sometimes if the parents like how you babysit they will help you get a few more babysitting gigs later on down the road which for your benefit means more money. Another important thing to have is note cards or a note book and pen or pencils so you can write down the general information about the family, doctor's numbers, cell phone numbers etc. Being prepared helps when babysitting, knowing what to do in emergency situations, make sure you stay calm and make sure you are in charge. Don't be too strict but also make sure that the children you are babysitting don't walk all over you. Have fun and good luck.

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