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Finding out that you get to spend an evening playing with young children and getting paid for it is very exciting. If this is the first time you've ever sit with young children or babies, you need to know a few things about the world of childcare.

1. Rates and payments.
First, talk to the parents about your rates. If this is your first job, ask them what they normally pay babysitters. They may pay by the hour or give you a flat rate for the evening. When you're just starting out as a babysitter, it's best to accept whatever amount a parent is willing to pay you. Experienced babysitters make more money.

2. Get to know the children.
Next, if you know the family you're babysitting for, the job can be easy. The kids are acquainted with you and aren't afraid to wave good-bye to their parents. However, if you've never met the children before, they may be a little afraid. If at all possible, spend some time with the kids before the big night so they can get accustomed to you.

3. Emergency Phone Numbers
It is definitely important to have the cell phone numbers of both parents. Ask for the number where they will be if one is available. You may want to ask for phone numbers of other family members who live nearby.

4. Neighbors
Find out if the parents know the neighbors well enough to ask them for help in an emergency. You will need to know if the children you are babysitting are allowed to play with the neighborhood kids.

5. Parent's Rules
Ask the parents for a list of curfew times for the children. Do they have a specific bedtime? Are they not allowed to watch certain cartoons or television channels? Find out from the parents because children don't always tell the truth.

6. Paying Attention
The number one rule to being a great babysitter is to pay attention to the child. You are not there to make personal phone calls or watch your favorite television show. You are babysitting someone else's children. If the child comes to you and wants something, assist the child. Maybe he or she needs help getting a toy out of the toy box. Maybe he or she wants you to play with them. The more attention you pay to the child, the better your chances are of getting hired again.

7. What to do?
A lot of kids will have enough toys to entertain themselves for the evening, but what if they tell you they are bored? Have a back up plan. Bring your own toys, games, or ideas. Children love coloring, but be careful that they don't run off with the crayons. Parents don't appreciated art drawn directly on the wall, television surface or furniture.
8. Be ready for anything.
Children are capable of anything at any given moment. Be on your toes and prepared for an emergency. Know all the escape routes in case of a fire. Know where the paper towels or cleaning rags are for accidental spills. Ask the parents where the extra sets of clothes are for potty accidents.

Keep in mind that this is a business. When you behave professionally, such as showing up with neat hair and clean clothes, it shows the parents you are responsible. As with any business, leave your contact information for the parents to get back in touch with you. It's not expected for you to have business cards, so a note on the refrigerator will suffice. You could write "We had a great time, call me again the next time you need a babysitter, Name, Number."

Good luck on your first babysitting job. It will get easier and easier as you gain more experience.

Learn more about this author, Wendy Brock.
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