Be the best babysitter on the block

By Emily Kulkus, Special to The Sunday

Sunday, Aug. 9, 2015 | 2 a.m.

Part-time jobs for teenagers can be competitive and difficult to find.

But babysitting is always in high demand and can be a great job for young people.

That said, it takes skill.

Here are some tips on how to be the best babysitter on the block:

• Spread the word.

You might be a great babysitter, but does anybody know it? If you want to get hired, don’t be shy.

Consider printing fliers to post in libraries, at church, in a local community center or at other select locations. Or create a PDF that Mom or Dad could email to friends. Include your name and contact information, your experience with children, your availability and your rate. Other information you might want to include are how much notice you require, whether you can drive yourself or need a ride, whether you have special training or skills, and if you’re available overnight.

A detailed ad can show a prospective employer you’re organized and serious about the job.

• Get training. If a parent knows you are CPR certified or have first-aid training, that experience may give you an advantage over other babysitters. Call your local Red Cross or higher education learning center to see what classes are offered. Some classes even are tailored specifically for babysitters.

• Set your rate. Do your homework and find out what the going rate is for babysitting in your area. Consider different rates for multiple children and decide whether you want to charge less when a child is sleeping or more for a holiday or late night.

Communicate your price clearly and confidently. Parents appreciate knowing what you think is fair, especially if they want to keep you on “the payroll.” Saying, “Whatever you think is best,” could lead to hard feelings if you don’t agree on the rate.

• Channel Mary Poppins. Remember that big bag the famous nanny carried that had an umbrella, coat rack and endless other goodies in it? Consider bringing your own Mary Poppins bag of surprises to your next babysitting job.

Three things to remember: Keep it simple, keep it frugal and keep the items — they are your babysitting tools, not gifts.

Grab a new coloring book and markers, supplies to make a craft (beads, pipe cleaners and foam stickers all are easy and cheap) or old clothes to play dress up. The children will love the novelty of playing with something new, and the parents will appreciate your going above and beyond to take an interest in their kids.

• Clean up. Coming home to a picked-up house will score big points with parents. Wash the dishes you and the children use or load the dishwasher and store any uneaten food in the fridge. Tidying up stray toys, sippy cups and bath supplies isn’t just a nice perk for parents, it’s part of your job.