a good fit,” or “I won’t be available,
but thanks for thinking of me.”
8.
b:
Any time you call 911, call the parents immediately after you
call for help. But if a child won’t stop crying, stay calm. Keep
a cool head so that you can do what you’re trained to do.
Never call with a complaint, but remember: it is OK to call
your parents or the child’s parents for help if you really
need it.
9.
d:
You should feel relaxed enough to take care of the children
and yourself. If you’re hungry, get a snack. But don’t make a
mess, tie up the phone, or secretly invite friends over. And
never snoop! How would you feel if someone poked around
in your room while you were out? Respect your client’s privacy.
10.
d:
If a baby falls from a high spot and seems fine, call 911.
She may have internal injuries that you can’t see. If you can’t
stop the child’s bleeding from a deep cut, call 911. Even if you
dislodge an object from a choking child, call 911 to make sure
she is in good health. Though serious accidents rarely occur, if
they do happen while you’re on the job, the clients will expect
you to call 911.
how did you score?
0–3 points
helping hands
Babysitting isn’t for you—yet! Read this book to get a better idea of
what it takes to care for kids. Then start helping out with your younger
siblings, cousins, or neighbors’ children. Eventually, you’ll be ready to sit
solo.
4–6 points
budding babysitter
You might not be ready for infant twins, but you are wise enough to
understand that it’s your responsibility to know all you can. After all,
no one wants to make mistakes when caring for children. If you’re
already a parent’s helper, add to your skills. Check out a Red Cross
babysitting course or other child-care class offered in your community.
7–10 points
natural nanny
You’ve got what it takes to make a smart sitter. Read this book to fill
in any information gaps you may have about caring for children. Take a
safety class. Then get experience. Knowledge can build your confidence,
and practice can build your skills. Before long, you’ll be known as the
best sitter on your block!
what do I need to
know before the
parents leave?
Ask the parents
anything
you’re not sure about. The first time you
babysit for a family, arrive a few minutes early and get the facts you
need. Here are just a few ideas for what to ask.
What’s your cell-phone
number so I can reach
you in an emergency?
What’s this address and
phone number in case I
need to let someone know?
What time do you expect
to be home?
May I have the name
and phone number of a
neighbor in case I need
help immediately?
Can you give me the
name and number of
the children’s doctor
and hospital?
Do the children have
any allergies to foods
or medicine?
What’s the name of the
nearest intersection to
this house in case I need
to call 911?
What and when do
you want me to feed
the children?
Are any foods off-limits?
What should I do with
the dirty diapers and
clothes?
Are the children taking
any medications I need
to know about?
