Babysitting Experiences/Tips?

[True Rarity 1,240]

Hello fellow baby/foalsitters!

 

So, my brother and I will be babysitting two young boys throughout the rest of this month and some of the next. They're not bad little boys, just... A handful. But, then again, aren't all children?

 

In fact, we're watching them as I type this. They got here about three hours ago and we've still got to watch them for about five more hours.

 

So, since I'm not exactly a big fan of babysitting (I was only doing it so I could get enough money to pay off the rest of my debt to my parents, but it turns out we're not getting paid...), I figured we foalsitters could all come together and share experiences and tips.

 

My biggest tip yet is that, if you are female, always, ALWAYS remove all iewelry and tie your hair back. Infants love to pull on long hair and earrings.

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

Well...stay in one room with them. Maybe get them a movie to occupy them during the time. If they get bored, get a board game or videogame, if they have one. Otherwise, go outside and play sports with them. Babysitting can be fun if YOU decide to make it fun. 

[RunsWithSquirlz 274]

It all really depends on how old they are, I put on Nick Jr or Babyfirst TV and give him his toys. My son is content to just toddle around playing with his toys and singing along to Cailou or whatnot. Talk to them and keep their mind occupied. Sit em down in a chair and give them a snack.

[Frostgage 7,975]

I've never babysat before, but I do have a much younger brother I take care of sometimes.

 

Honestly, I don't really have any advice. I usually just sort of let him do his own thing.

Edited June 11, 2014 by Frostgage

[Boo 92]

It's always nice to be certified in CPR or Heimlich! Yknow, just in case.

 

I always let the kids I babysit go outside. I live in a forest, so we always go on big adventures! They're usually real tired out by the time we get back, so we end the night with coloring/painting/creative things and a dinner/snack.

 

I don't tend to babysit kids under the age of like, four/three... I'm awful with infants.