Parenting Tips
By Jamie Thompson
Updated: June 27, 2023
Originally Published: August 18, 2013
Let’s take a trip down memory lane. Back in the day, babysitting rates were a mere dollar per hour per child. I once even got paid in coins by a dad who thought it was funny. But don’t feel sorry for me; I often balanced things out by “borrowing” a drink or two from their liquor cabinet. Fast forward to today, and the babysitting landscape has changed dramatically. My family’s outings sometimes feel as costly as my first car. I often wonder why so many babysitters leave for college; surely there’s a successful former sitter living large in some exotic locale.
So, aspiring babysitters, take note. I trust you already enjoy children and aren’t hiding any dark secrets. Here’s how to elevate your babysitting game to reach that dream life:
- Communicate Effectively
It seems like every child born in the ’90s loses their ability to articulate as they hit their teenage years. Just a few weeks ago, I asked a sitter how the kids fared, and the response was a series of gestures that left me bewildered. Please, if something goes awry, I need to know that you’re capable of communicating clearly, especially in an emergency. - Be Proactive
I often send a heads-up to my sitters 30 minutes before returning home with a message like, “On our way!” What I really mean is, “Please make sure the house isn’t a disaster!” While I don’t expect you to deep clean, picking up toys and washing a few dishes will certainly earn you a future gig. - Make Yourself at Home
I’m entrusting you with my children, so it’s vital that you feel comfortable. Come in, unwind, and engage with my kids right away. If you need something, don’t hesitate to search the kitchen—just maybe avoid my stash of Skinny Pop. Mess with that, and we’ll have a problem. - Stay Engaged
While I assumed that teens would be glued to their devices, I’ve found that many are not very responsive when it comes to babysitting inquiries. This often leaves me scrambling to plan outings far in advance. A simple “yes” or “no” from you can make all the difference. If you’re unavailable, connect me with other babysitters you trust; I promise to always contact you first. - Reassurance is Key
As a slightly controlling parent, I appreciate receiving updates while I’m out. Sending a quick picture or text to confirm everything is fine would be fantastic. However, I understand that some parents prefer to disconnect entirely. Feel free to ask what I’d prefer. - Share Your Insights
Having a conversation with someone who isn’t consumed by diapers and tantrums is refreshing. Share your thoughts on fashion or the latest concerts you’ve attended. While I might feel ancient, I’d love to hear about your world for a few minutes before diving back into my adult responsibilities. - Wrap Up with a Smile
Parents adore hearing about all the delightful moments their kids shared with you. Whether it’s a funny story or a fabricated tale about them learning to read, I want to hear it all. After a night out, I likely won’t remember the details come morning anyway.
In essence, we appreciate you for taking care of our kids. We know it’s not an easy job. Just be the awesome sitter we know you can be. But not too awesome—there’s a fine line.
For more insights on parenting and related topics, check out this home insemination kit resource. Also, if you are looking for advice on keeping your little ones safe during outings, this guide is an excellent authority on the subject and is worth reviewing. And for those expecting parents, the CDC offers comprehensive resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
This guide provides practical tips for becoming a favorite babysitter, focusing on effective communication, being proactive, and creating a comfortable environment. It emphasizes the importance of engaging with children and keeping parents informed while also allowing for a bit of personal conversation.