2torial #0865:
Learn2 Be a Good Babysitter

Get paid to play

Flexible and fun, babysitting is the job of choice for millions of teenagers (and many adults). For a lot of older kids, it's their first chance to learn job responsibility and earn their own money.

Babysitters will be in demand as long as parents need time to themselves, and good ones are routinely offered more work than they can handle. If being a superstar babysitter appeals to you, read on. We'll tell you how to get your first job, what to expect when you get there, and much more.

Take a few minutes to consider if babysitting is for you.

Do you like children? Are babies and small children interesting and fun to be around, or do you think they're too demanding? If you don't genuinely like kids, the job won't be easy or fun--for you or the children.

Do you have experience? Maybe you like kids in theory but haven't had to take care of them. Volunteering to help babysit at a church or temple, day camp, or your local YMCA will teach you what to do with kids, and whether you like the work.

Do your parents approve? Your folks may be concerned that if you start babysitting you'll fall behind in your schoolwork, or you won't be available for family time. Talk with them about their concerns, and try to come up with a compromise (perhaps limit the number of jobs you'll take, and review how you're doing after a few months).

Do you have time? Babysitting (like any job) takes time away from other activities, like homework, practice for arts or sports, or just hanging out with friends. Consider what you might have to give up to start working, then start out slowly to see how much you can handle.