Educational Qualifications and Skills Required
One does not need to be highly qualified for such a job, but there are a few things which prove helpful if one knows them. Getting training and a certificate in CPR or cardiopulmonary resuscitation is helpful. The parents too are reassured that their children will not be helpless lest a situation arises. Having a certificate gives one an edge over the other applicants. Getting the certificate is not difficult and one can easily take up the training at the neighborhood medical centre or the fire department.
A number of recreation centers offer basic training classes in babysitting. Here one can learn simple ways of doing the job more efficiently. It is an easy way of acquiring some experience too. The classes help in giving a basic idea about how to handle children of different age groups, and whom to contact in an emergency. It also helps in boosting the confidence of the applicant and ensures attaining teenage employment.
Job Responsibilities
Baby sitting is one of the most popular teenage jobs. While it no doubt is simple there are a few basic things to keep in mind. Making a good first impression is important. Also, one should clearly understand the needs of the child before the parents leave. Indulging in long telephone conversations is unethical and the lines should be kept free to allow the parents to call. Taking care of the child properly is of utmost importance and the child at no time should feel neglected or alone.
How to Get Babysitting Jobs?
Generally people put up advertisements in the dailies or call up centers to ask for baby sitters. One can easily get such jobs looking through the dailies, which is the easiest to do, or leave a message with the center that you are willing to take up a job. If the time and the other requirements match then the center calls up the applicant and the job is assigned. They also charge a nominal fee for this.
One should also settle the rate beforehand to avoid confusion later. The charges are normally on hourly basis and vary from city to city. Charging reasonably ensures repeat calls and helps to bond better with the family and the child alike.
Another easy alternative is the word of mouth. For this to work out, one needs to be sincere and polite. Doing the job to the best of ones ability is the easiest way of gaining the confidence of the parents. If they think that you are good at your work they can call you as and when they need you and even tell their friends about you. Being compatible with the family and the kids and understanding their needs bonds the parents with the baby sitter in a special way. This not only ensures a stable job option but often turns into a warm relationship.
