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So you want to make some money of your own and getting a full time job at Micky D's is not in appealing to you?
Any teen will tell you if you want to make money babysitting is where it's at.
Babysitting is always in high demand, but you just can't stroll into any one's home and be a great sitter. The following tips can get the job you need to make the money that you want to have.

- First off, get some training. Red Cross offers excellent training in babysitting. This course is made for 11 to 15 year olds who are serious about babysitting jobs. It teaches CPR, first aid, and even diapering and feeding techniques for a baby. Not to mention bedtime tips that can give you some heads up on what you may be experiencing soon.

- Most importantly, be sure to like children. Mothers tend to have a sixth sense about these things, and if they do not you will make yourself miserable taking on a job like this.

- Make sure you have the time AND your parent's are OK with you decision. Babysitting is to be taken seriously. It takes a lot of time and effort and if you are very busy otherwise with sports and other hobbies it may not be the right job for you.

- Ask questions AND be honest when asked questions. If you are not sure what to do in certain situation, DO NOT be afraid to ask the parent for advice. By following their instructions you better insure the safety of their child. Be truthful when they ask you questions, there is no reason to lie since they are trying to help you too.

- Take the time to understand house rules. Make sure you know what is and is not off limits to the child or children you are sitting for. By having a firm back bone and not letting the child run over you, you can exercise authoritative control. Be sure to understand the parents method of discipline. Trust is very important in job like this so be sure to follow rules set for you as well.

- Respecting your elders should not be new to you. Treating parents, as well as their children with respect can take you far; not to mention respecting their home. That means you should not ignore the kids while focusing on what you want to do, whether it be talking on the phone or something else equally as trivial that distracts you from your job. Also keep in mind that you should be respecting their home. If you have dirty dishes, wash them or place them in the dish washer. Pick up trash and other things that you or the kids may have used in the time you have spent there. It just looks good!

- Have some patients and be nice. Children will test you to see how much they can and cannot get away with. Think things over and talk to the child if possible. In the long run, the child will respect you more. Most of all have fun, pulling out Candyland and paying attention to the child can help you to keep coming back over and over again!

Learn more about this author, Kay D. Sadell.
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