Babysitting is so fun because we are people who are hired to be a kid for a day. Yes we have to say no sometimes and be in charge but it is no ordinary job.
As a babysitter you are being looked up to and you are the fun night in their normal week. As much fun of a job as it is, take a moment and appreciate everything these kids teach you and appreciate the fact that you get to be a part of these kids lives and an influence on them! Remember that you are their role model and that these kids are going to learn so much from you.
Something else that babysitters learn is how to be prepared even when you're unprepared and if you've never changed a diaper, you'll definitely master that skill too. As a frequent babysitter of many children of all ages, these are only a few of the things I have learned.
1. Creativity is key.
And fun activities too!
2. Kids are unpredictable.
You have no idea when they will jump in a pool or even pee on the couch.
3. If they don't like you, it won't be a fun day.
4. Listening is just hard when you're little.
5. Google is your friend- when in doubt google it out.
6. I don't know how these parents do it.
7. Making a dinner that everyone will eat is nearly impossible.
Even mac n' cheese won't cut it sometimes
8. When in doubt, watch a movie.
9. If you have to put the kids to bed, extra time outside and extra exhausting games are necessary.
10. Kids love Snapchat filters.
11. Always expect waterworks.
12. Don't fall for the "mommy said I can do this____."
13. Expect the unexpected.
14. Things will be thrown at you-- protect your face.
15. You will rarely get 4 kids to agree on one movie.
16. If you are babysitting a small child in public, be prepared to be mistaken for a teen mom.
17. Bed time will never happen on time.
18. The fear of kids hiding from you.
19. Holding hands is a serious deal when in public places.
20. Learning kids sneaky habits.
i.e. learning the sound the pantry makes to know when they are sneaking treats
21. Be prepared for marker, puke, or pee to be left on your clothes.
22. Their imaginations are remarkable.
23. Have fun with them- it makes everything better.
24. Kids are hilarious.
25. Understanding baby talk is hard.
26. The terrible twos are a real thing.
27. Expect parents to be late!
28. Always have the cash app on your phone.
29. Think of fun activities before you go.
Pinterest is always good for fun ideas!