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8 Life-Long Life Lessons I've Learned From Babysitting

Children share joy so easily.

sarahjordan

Dec 29, 2018

The University of Alabama

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8 Life-Long Life Lessons I've Learned From Babysitting

Jordan Barnard

Ever since I was old enough to babysit I've always been the one to volunteer to watch any kid no matter what because I love kids so much. I can't wait to see the kiddos because they are the highlights of my day. Not only do the kids that I watch bring happiness everywhere but also the kids at church. Sometimes you learn more from kids than you do from teachers

1. Never underestimate a good game of hide and seek

Kids love hide and seek. It seems to tire them out with all the running in circles but it also tires yo out as well. Don't forget the cat has to play too

2. Children's cartoons are so much better than the stuff on TV for young adults.

Sitting down to watch some cartoons after a lot of paying is so relaxing and honestly enjoyable. "Peppa Pig" has become my favorite show. And I'm 16.

3. Playing with the kids will be worth feeling tired

Making the kids happy and seeing them smile will be more of a reward than money ever will. Even though you end up being worn out the kids will always remember you played with them.

4. Patience.

Patience is a virtue, but it can really be put to the test when one kid is screaming at the other because one touched the Barbie doll when they shouldn't or when one starts crying and won't tell you why. You learn to keep calm and try and make things better.

5. Creativity.

When the kids are bored out of their mind they tend to do anything to keep them occupied. Play barbie with them or do endless amounts of "tricks" with them on the rug. They will love it.

6. Team Work.

The best way to get a job done is to do it together, especially when it comes to cleaning. My kiddos always help when it comes to picking up and I am so thankful for that.

7. Self-Reliance

You are the one in control while babysitting. There is no one to rely on but you. You can't ask a 7-year-old what to do when the cat gets stuck between the Christmas tree and chair and you're in panic mode. You just have to hope for the best. Isn't that what being an adult is all about?

8. How to look at the world through the eyes of a child.

There is so much going on in our world today it's sometimes hard to step back and see the beauty like children do. When I babysit I find myself more excited about life because everything we do from coloring to riding in the golf cart is a new adventure. I love that the kiddos I babysit are able to spread joy so easily and share some with me because every night I come home with a little more joy in my heart.

Babysitting has taught me so many things, and if I really sat here and wrote about every single concept I've learned then I would probably end up writing a book. I am truly grateful for every opportunity I've had to babysit for a family because each of the children I have taken care of has affected me and I will always carry them in my heart with the joy and lessons they have given me.

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8 Life-Long Life Lessons I've Learned From Babysitting

Children share joy so easily.

1. Never underestimate a good game of hide and seek

2. Children's cartoons are so much better than the stuff on TV for young adults.

3. Playing with the kids will be worth feeling tired

4. Patience.

5. Creativity.

6. Team Work.

7. Self-Reliance

8. How to look at the world through the eyes of a child.

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Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

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Doing the friendly wave to every boat you pass.

The cooler is always packed, mostly with beer.

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Knowing any swimsuit that you own with white in it is best left for the pool or the ocean.

The momentary fear for your life as you get launched from the tube.

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Having unexpected problems with your boat.

Having a name for your boat unique to you and your life.

There's no better place you'd rather be in the summer.

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