Babysitting can be a great side hustle to earn quick money.
But this popular child care job isnt for everyone.
You obviously need to love children and have some real-life experience caring for them.
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Many people start their babysitting careers at a young age by watching their own siblings or family members.
But the truth is you’re free to make money babysitting at almost any age.
Babysitting jobs are accessible to younger adults and teens because they dont require a college degree or formal education.
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it’s crucial that you be a leader and problem solver with excellent communication skills.
Youll also need to educate yourself about child care and get certified in first aid and CPR.
Curious about how to become a babysitter?
Heres everything it’s crucial that you know.
Did you know?
In all but one state (Maryland), there is no legal minimum age required to babysit.
However, age can still impact the bang out of jobs you get.
Many parents and agencies look for this bang out of training when hiring a babysitter.
Likewise, some parents may not be comfortable handing their child over to a preteen.
Websites likeCare.com one of the largest job posting sites for caregivers also sets age requirements.
The American Red Cross is one of the best places to start your babysitting certification and training search.
The nonprofit organization not only offersfirst aid and CPR training, they also offer three differentbabysitting certification courses.
Plus, it looks great on your resume.
you’re able to also register for these courses online.
These certifications usually require completing online coursework as well as passing a hands-on in-person class to master skills.
Most first aid and CPR certifications last two years, so youll need to renew them regularly.
Aninitial combined CPR/first aid certificationfrom the Red Cross ranges from $50 to $90.
Youll probably receive a handbook as part of your babysitting certification course.
Guides like this offer valuable information you’re able to refer back to once you start babysitting.
Having a good set of references improves your chances of snagging the babysitting job you want.
You generally want at least two solid references you could show potential clients.
Families want to confirm you come highly rated and have prior child care experience.
Creating a list of references can be challenging if this is your first professional babysitting job.
Technically, you’re able to list anyone including family members and friends as a reference.
However, the more relevant your references are, the better it looks to prospective parents.
A good resume will showcase your certifications, training, education and prior experience watching children.
You may also want to consider getting a drivers license if you dont have one.
Some families look for babysitters who can drive their kids to after-school activities or doctor appointments.
Obtaining your license helps you prequalify for a wider range of jobs.
Brush up on topics youre interested in, like gentle parenting skills or conflict resolution between younger siblings.
you’re free to find many of these resources online with a simple Google or YouTube search.
Another option is enrolling in an online class at a community college.
How Much Money Can Babysitters Make?
Still, its always helpful to have a starting figure in mind when you apply for any babysitting job.
Consult a tax specialist if youre in doubt about your status.
Where Can You Find Babysitting Jobs?
Its one of the easiest ways to land more babysitting jobs.
Depending on your location, you may find opportunities posted onMonster.comandIndeed.com.
you might advertise your services for free onCraigslistand NextDoor.
you’re free to also post about your babysitting services on Facebook.
Look for parent groups on the site along with classified and community groups in your area.
double-check to mention your qualifications, availability and maximum distance youre willing to travel for babysitting jobs.
Both offer free membership options as well as paid versions that include background checks and improved placement.
you’ve got the option to also try babysitting apps, such asBubble,SitterandBambino.
Share information beyond, I like caring for kids, Fong said.
Babysitting websites and apps make it easy to find work, but theres a catch.
Most handle payment transactions through their online platform and many take a cut of what you earn.
After brief introductions are over, be confident and ask questions.
That can be exciting, especially if its your first babysitting job.
Still, its always best to meet in-person or over Zoom before you formally accept an offer.
Doing so lets you discuss your hourly rate, responsibilities, house rules and expected duties in more detail.
If things progress to the interview stage, prepare the night before by brainstorming potential questions.
A good babysitter shows up on time.
After all, first impressions go a long way especially with this side gig.
If you dont land the babysitting job you wanted, dont give up.
Its normal to face rejection in the beginning.
Stay positive and keep honing your skills to find the right job.
Rachel Christian is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance and a senior writer for The Penny Hoarder.
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