Archive for July, 2009

Childminding Caring for Older Children 1

We’ve already looked at what not to do when caring for an older child, so now we’ll look at …
What you need to do:

Open your ears. Let the child talk about their day if they want to. Do not look bored, and never interrupt the child when they tell you a story. If it is asked for, offer advice, and also ask a question or two. Begging or venting might be just what she needs to do. This will assist with relationship building for the child, the main thing to being a friend as well as a babysitter.

The child will notice if you take an interest in them. He or she should know that you really like spending time with them. Have some fun by playing games. Don’t be afraid to laugh and get into what you are doing, play what she wants to play, and just have fun. If you are enjoying yourself and giggling, then most likely the child will be joyful too. You are not boss just because you are having fun together. They will understand that you will play and do fun things if they listen to you, if you get your point across in the appropriate way.

The best you can do for the child is to talk with them. Whatever their interests are, build on them by talking about sports, movies, school, animals, etc. Think of some funny stories you have and then share them with the child. Let the child get to know you, and also really get to know the child. If it comes up, compare the length of socks you like to wear, your favorite colors, hairstyles and foods. (When speaking with children, you don’t know what the subject will end up being.)  You will be a better babysitter if you get to know them better. And if they know you better, they will feel comfortable in your presence. When talking to the children, just use your judgment. Complete details about the previous night’s love session with your boyfriend is inappropriate.

The children you babysit should be your friends; you shouldn’t be afraid of this. For the long haul, this friendship will cause your job to be more easy. When you are friends, they become less likely to argue with you over bedtimes and such. You are not a peer, and make sure the child never thinks that you are. This is not the same, and there must be separation between the two. You will have a happy client if you are able to do this.