subject: Getting the Best Start in Childcare [print this page] Getting the Best Start in Childcare
Having an interest in childcare can lead to rewarding experiences with children and possibly an even more rewarding career. There are many options in the world of childcare from simply starting off as a now and then babysitter to a more professional child care business or nanny placement through a company. There are many steps in gaining the tools needed to start off, one of which should obviously be a desire to and an enjoyment of working with children. Most start up babysitting jobs come from word of mouth so it is important to make a good impression and these simple tips will get you going in the right direction. When first meeting with the parents you will be babysitting for be sure you are up front with your abilities and comfort levels. Take along a list of references if available. Pay attention and make good eye contact, if you are uncertain about something always ask questions. An important step, that many not be required in beginning babysitting jobs, but would be an excellent tool in getting that first job, would be a CPR and first aid certification through a red cross or similar type certified program. Having that type of certification would allow you the confidence in knowing you can deal with an emergency situation and would have the tools when and if needed. Another benefit is that the parents would have peace of mind knowing you would be able to deal with even an unlikely situation.
I also feel another important step in childcare is keeping important information handy. Being organized and showing a good level of responsibility will speak highly to parents. A good idea is to keep a note book with information on each family you work with containing important numbers and information; an important number I like to have is poison control for example. Other important things to keep on hand are; a list of allergies, important neighbors and relatives in case of an emergency situation, favorite foods, games, discipline actions such as room time, or time outs for negative behaviors, bed times, home work schedules, allowed T.V. and movie types, favorite stories, birthdays, etc. This allows you to have a more one on one understanding of each child and build a better relationship with them making both of your experiences more enjoyable.
Try to plan your time with the child(ren) you will be watching. Things like bringing an age appropriate game if you have one available to help engage the child(ren) in something new. Cards can be fun and allow for many different games suitable for all ages. This helps the time to go by faster and builds a relaxing environment. Be sure to check with things needing to be done so you can adjust the schedule as needed, i.e. homework, dinner, game time, clean up, wash, bed. Be flexible but stick to a routine the child(ren) are used to, this will help everything go more smoothly. Also clean as you go and make sure to involve the child(ren) in the clean up, no one wants to come home to a mess and while not necessarily a required part of babysitting or being nanny but it definitely makes a huge difference. These skills will start you off in the right direction and help you gain confidence and learn to take control of situations while not taking away from the fun time everyone should be having.
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