How to Use Babysitting Safety Basics

Using basic babysitting safety practices will ensure the kids will remain safe under your supervision. Showing parents that you know and use babysitting safety skills will earn their trust and more babysitting jobs. Keep these ideas in mind during any babysitting job.

•Step 1
Sign up for a babysitting class. Babysitting classes will give you the first aid knowledge and other babysitting safety skills you need to feel comfortable should an emergency arise. Parents will feel more comfortable with you watching their children. Also consider CPR training.

•Step 2
Make sure you have contact information for the parents and relatives in the area. You don't want to find yourself amidst an emergency with no contact numbers. Also make sure you have information on the child's doctor, preferred hospital, etc.

•Step 3
Find out if the children have any medical conditions or behaviors that you should be aware of. Being prepared will enable you to better handle a situation should it arise.

•Step 4
Assess the environment and identify any potential hazards such as pools, fireplaces, or sharp corners. Keep the kids away from these areas or keep a close eye on them around these dangers. Identifying dangers and preventing accidents is an important part of babysitting safety.

•Step 5
Give the kids your full attention. Making phone calls, texting friends, or watch TV are all big distractions. Kids can easily slip out of the room in a matter of seconds and get into dangerous situations.

•Step 6
Establish rules and guidelines with the kids. Let them know that they should follow the rules and listen to you as they would their parents. Establishing these expectations is an important part of babysitting safety.