From research, it is found that Babysitting is temporarily caring for a child. It has been a paid job for ages. The type of work for babysitters also varies from watching a sleeping child, changing diapers, playing games, preparing meals, and to teaching the child to read or even drive (if the age is right). It is mostly depends on the agreement between parents and babysitter.
This post explains in details what you need to know in starting a babysitting/Daycare Business. If you love kids and you want to combine your passion for children with a way to earn income, starting a daycare / childcare service is perfect for you.
What are skills and experiences you will need?
In some countries various organizations produce courses for babysitters, many focusing on child safety and first aid appropriate for infants and children; these classes or courses can be provided at local hospitals and schools. These educational programs help to equip the babysitter with information to keep both the children being cared for, and the sitter themselves, safe in various scenarios.
Whenever dealing with someone’s children, it is imperative that you conduct yourself in a professional manner. Be organized and attentive to the client’s needs and wishes, as well as the children’s. Treat their house and belongings with respect and a mature attitude. This keeps you in good graces with the parents and spreads a positive reputation to other potential clients. Consider volunteering for Sunday school or church daycare, help out at friends’ children’s birthdays, or volunteer through public libraries.
READ ALSO: Secrets About Laundry and Ironing Business
Start a Babysitting Business
The fact is that not everyone would think of babysitting as a business. If you treat it like a small business, all aspects will go smoother and you will be more successful. Starting a childcare business, whether it’s a large daycare or a part time hobby, should take some preparation and thought. As you get started and build a client base, you will begin to enjoy it more and feel more comfortable with the kids you’re caring for.
- credentials or proof of experience
Obtain relevant experience that you can document. Whether you are a teen or an adult, you will have to prove your ability to a potential client with references, credentials or proof of experience. While having references of sitting jobs you have performed for relatives is positive, you will want to get references from unbiased sources even if you have to volunteer your services at first.
2. Establish a pricing schedule
Establish a pricing schedule that is reasonable to both the target customer and your financial need. You will need to justify what you charge with the experience and level of service you will provide. While most rates range between $10 and $25 per hour, it may be reasonable to charge more or less depending on the duration and level of care necessary for a particular job.
3. Advertise your babysitting service
Whether you are offering your services as a solo contractor or beginning a fully developed company hiring out professional sitters, you’ll get the most bang for your advertising dollar if you display your marketing message (fliers, business cards and brochures) in venues that are trusted by your target consumer. Ask the local pastor if he would mention your business at the close of services or advertise in the weekly bulletin, or get permission to pass out fliers at the local school PTA meetings.
How to Be a Good Babysitter
Being a good babysitter is very important. It helps make parents and kids happy and keeps kids safe. Never babysit when you are sick. It is irresponsible and may spread sickness to anyone in the family you’re watching. Be responsible. This is a very important one. You are taking care of little people that are very important, especially to their parents. If you can show them you are responsible, they will feel more comfortable with you. Also, a responsible babysitter will be better prepared for potentially problems.
The Tips and guides for Childcare and Babysitting
Sometimes you’ll watch kids in their home, and sometimes you’ll watch them in other locations. It’s always a good idea to have activities planned just in case. Always spend time with them keeps them busy and happy.
Some ideas you can plan include playing games, reading books, coloring, cooking simple foods, etc. Try not to rely on the television. Too much TV isn’t good for anyone and it shouldn’t be used to do the job you’re getting paid to do.
Dealing with Difficult Kids
Stubborn kids can be a problem. Always get to inquire with their parents how they want you to deal with such problems. Sometimes siblings will fight constantly and other kids might be overly hyper or aggressive. Always ask parents about behavior issues and learn how to keep control of the kids. If the kids continue to be severely difficult time and time again, they might be too much for you. If there are too many problems that are interfering with you doing your job correctly, drop the client. Sometimes it just needs to be done if issues can’t be resolved.
