Babysitting does not have to be just another job to get some extra money. The thing about babysitting is you are chosen to be a part of a kids life. THAT'S HUGE! Don't go into the day with the attitude that it's just going to be a boring day and to do only the bare minimum just to get through the day.
What's that saying? You get out of it what you put into it? Well that's the same quote you should repeat on the daily. So to make your days less boring and something you can be proud of, here are some fun, cheap ideas to think about!
1. Put down the phone!
So the kids are just watching TV, you're thinking what can it hurt checking my Snapchat and Instagram for the fourth time in the last five minutes? Let me tell you, I GET IT! Sometimes I just want to be on my phone even though literally there is nothing new going on. This is my number one piece of advice because it's one that I still have a hard time with. I have to remind myself that even though these kids see me on my phone it may not effective them negatively now, but I have the chance to help them make a memory or learn a valuable life lesson.Why waste that opportunity catching up on the Kardashians?
2. Pinterest
Seriously Pinterest is every babysitters life line! There are so many fun things you can do with your kiddos! Sure getting some supplies may cost a little money but not much! Walmart is also a great place to get cheap crafts supplies that you can use over and over again! Like paint and chalk. I babysat a two year old and seven year old so their paint skills were greatly different. But I love finger painting and when the kids paint their whole hand and place it on a canvas for their parents. I like the idea that parents will have a long lasting nice looking piece of art from their parents.
Disclaimer, When finger painting or painting at all be sure to find a paint that is washable and safe. Keep your eyes on your kids. PAINT DOES NOT BELONG IN MOUTHS! I use acrylic paint that is safe on skin and washes off easy on ANYTHING! Another thing... beware of scissors! Either get kid friendly ones or keep your eyes on it when your kids use them.
3. Rainy days...
So these days are hard. They make it feel like the day is never going to end. Your kid is restless, you're bored out of your mind! The best thing I can say to you is, IT'S GOING TO BE OK! These are days when it's a safe to pull out that craft you had stowed away for days such as these! Or I suggest talking with you employer. Well the parent. Talk about possible day trips you can make with the kids and if they can give you like a allowance for a day out in town. Example! On a terrible rainy day I took my kiddo to froyo and "Finding Dory." He had so much fun and you got to get out of the house! Another fun idea is building a classic fort out of the furniture and blankets.
4. Get some fresh air.
Please, besides putting your phone away please do this for not only the sake of your kiddos but for the sake of your own pure sanity! Play catch in the yard, go to the park, go on a walk while the kids ride their bikes. Go swimming. Just be sure you use plenty of sun screen on the kids, Don't miss the ears! And know what the parents routines are for swimming like life jackets or swim diapers etc.
5. Think ahead.
If you leave the house for anything be sure to pack snacks and liquids. Keep your kiddos hydrated!
6. Know the parents' expectations.
As soon as you start - before the parents or guardians - leave know your facts! ALLERGIES, ASTHMA, PHONE NUMBERS, EMERGENCY CONTACTS, MEDICATIONS, Is there a routine for nap time? Is there a nap time? If the baby has a diaper rash what cream should you use? Know if the kid has a special diet? KNOW YOUR FACTS DUDE! I promise you the parents will appreciate it. Even if they are in a hurry it's important to know these things to know how to keep your kiddo safe and you out of trouble.
An important thing to know is what you can and can not do when a kid disobeys or acts out. It is NOT your job to spank them or punish them. This is an important thing to discuss with the parents so you know how they do things. You do not want to confuse the child. When it comes to spanking that's hard to say... Let's just stick with you just don't spank them, leave that to the parents. Every parents disciplines differently and that's great! For safety for you and your job and the kids development it's safe and smart to know what the disciplinary actions are.
Babysitting can be hard and can push your buttons. It can sound like just some summer job meant for teens. But honestly it's a job that people are always in need of. Being a babysitter is so much more than just watching some kids for a few hours just for some extra spending cash. You were chosen to possibly be a big part of these kids lives. They may not remember you years later but I promise you, if you apply yourself to these kiddos days they will always have a moment that may have helped shape them into amazing, kind-hearted, smart, encouraging and inspirational humans in this world! And boy do we need more of those people! AM I RIGHT?! One last thing, not only could these moments help a child grow, this moments will bring the child out of you! You may even learn more than the kiddos. Who knows. Remember, you get out of it what you you put into it!
