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What is babysitting like?

I have applied to seven jobs, with no replies. I want to make extra money this summer, but it looks like I'm not going to get a real job. So, I am considering babysitting.

If you have ever babysat, what is it like? How much did you get paid or how much did you charge?

I have never babysat before, so I am considering taking the Red Cross Babysitting Course, Red Cross Child/Infant CPR Course, and a Red Cross First Aid Class.

Also, how do you advertise that you want to babysit? I don't particularly want to post an ad on Craigslist.

Thanks; I appreciate it! :)

Public Comments

1. Babysitting is fun and easy. You basically just go play with someone's kids all night. If you do decide to go babysitting I would bring some kind of fun activity to do, for instance, when i'm babysitting girls i like to bring string and beads, and we make bracelets. (make sure it's not messy, though) When babysitting you must be sure to keep the kids good company and put them to bed on time, and if they are in bed, i usually clean up.
I usually don't have a rate, i tell my employer to pay whatever they think is fair. But I think a reasonable one would be about $6.50 an hour. Also to advertize, i made a little half-sheet flier saying my name, phone number, the fact that i'm red cross certified, etc. and distributed them throughout my neighborhood in mailboxes.
Good luck getting some jobs and I hope this helped! Have fun!

2. It really depends on your age but since you have little experience I'm going to take a guess that you are 16 or younger. Babysitting is not a set thing. There is so many variables that may aid or not aid to you getting paid decently and having a somewhat enjoyable time.

A. The family. If the family you are babysitting for has a big nice house in comparison to a smaller plain house you might get paid more. Some families are generous, some our stingy, and some are in between. Since you have no experience then a hourly rate probably would not be appropriate.

B. The kids. Kids obviously can range anywhere from crazy, bouncing of the walls, and annoying to quiet, polite, and shy. To be a good babysitter you have to devote the right amount of attention and disipline according to the child. For a more shy and quiet child, talk often, get down to there level, watch their favorite movie, and make them feel comfortable. With a more out of hand and attention craving child you have to be more stern, limit your attention towards them, (otherwise they WILL not give you any peace) don't go back on your word (don't give into begging after you said no), and be very playful with them (preferably outside). Making the child like you and feel comfortable with you is important but so is not wrecking the house and following the parent's wishes.

C. The Parents. Always be very polite, sociable, and nice with the parents. Never question what they want you to do or do with the kids. It is more important to please the parents than to please the kids since they are paying for you. Give them your number so you are easy accessible and try to call them back on possible jobs as soon as possible. One thing that always boosts your approval rating is to CLEAN THEIR HOUSE. Don't get the duster out or anything but leave the house as clean or more clean than you found it. Put away any dishes or toys the kids use.

D. The Pay. The pay varies from household, experience, and how long you've been working with the family. A good pay rate is 5-6 dollars a hour. If you get older and want to be more professional and put up ads than you can expect minimum wage (8 dollars) but at your stage when the parents ask what to pay you just tell them you have no specific pay rate.

E. Yourself. Despite the contrary if your babysitting all day you don't have to spend every minute towards the kid or cleaning. Raid their pantries(not to much), take advantage of the TV or computer, do homework, or just lay down. The kids will forgive you when you devote later time to playing with them and the parents won't mind either. Getting time to yourself and making the job even more easier you can ask the parent if the child would want to bring a friend over. This keeps them occupied and gives you more time, although it's possible that more kids = more havoc, I'd say it's worth the try. If you want to get yourself out there and noticed I'd make flyers with your qualifications and number and spread them around neighborhoods/local billboards. If you have any adult friends or even adult family friends you might also want to mention that you are an available babysitter. Taking those classes will sure help.

If you do what you are supposed to do babysitting can be super fun, lax, and beneficial.

3. Well first off, babysitting is a matter of opinion. I love kids and can relate to them ;) so I love it. Some people don't really mind but it isn't their favorite, its indeed a responsibility( which it is, but they view it that way) I view it as a pleasure, I look forward to it. THe courses are all a good idea and I recommend them.
Here are some tips and things to think about:
Well research your local hospitals and see if there are classes you can take through them. This class will most likely give you basic first aid and will allow you to be prepared. Then make up some business cards. It might be a good idea to mention that you know your first aid. If the class gives you a certificate then you might say "I am ceritfied' at the bottom of the card. Then give a few to your parents and/or grandparents to give to people they know that have kids. Next make up a "babysitting bag." this should include the following: flashlight, rewards and/ or treats, story books, videos, toys, first aid kit, info on first aid techniques(for your reference), emergency list of phone numbers, snacks(make sure its ok with the parents), local poison control number, and anything else you might think you'll need. I would suggest having a notebook for writing down bedtimes, allergies, phone numbers, etc. This would impress the parents. Your first aid kit should include: band-aids, first aid ointment, tweezers, medical tape, gauze type dressing, latex gloves, and a disposable ice pack. Research normal temperatures for kids, so you know when it's too high. Make sure you know where the thermometer is. Lock the doors when the parents leave, windows should be shut if it's late at night, find out where the emergency supplies are( batteries, flashlight, etc.) Spend time with the kids, don't just sit and watch them play, play with them. Don't leave them alone, not even for a minute. Don't let the kids near the stove, sharp objects, plastics bags, open windows, electrical outlets. don't invite friends over, don't give the kids medicing without permission, don't let the kids play on the stairs. Keep a calendar of all your jobs. Write down addresses and telephone numbers. Write down ages and names of the kids so you know them. Maybe get there a little early so the kids can get used to you and the parents can get ready without interuptions. ask for a short little tour of the home so you won't wander for the bathroom or anything. Know when the parents will return. Discuss rules for the sitter as far as TV priveleges, phone calls, and snacks. Check for safety hazards on toys and around the house. Feed the kids only what is specified by the parents. When you answer the telephone, make sure the kids don't leave your sight. If there is a baby, put him or her in a play pen first. Make 911 calls as necessary. Stay calm when a child is hurt or sick. In case of emergency, sickness, or injury, keep the other children calm as well. Stay in contact with parents when an injury occurs, within reason. If its a scratch and isn't life threatening, don't disturb the parents but inform them later.Make sure you know how to make simple meals for the children. Knowing how to make cookies is a good thing too. Clean up messes made, and clean dishes. Stay alert! Remember that you are a role model for these kids. What you say and do is fair game. They will think they can say and do those things too.
Look for recipes for edible play-dough and regular play-dough(don't get them mixed up). The edible play-dough is good for cookies, and a treat. :)
Hope this helps! I know it's a lot but, it kinda comes naturally. I think thats why women make good babysitters, because their maternal instinct comes out.