Dealing With Tantrums

Image by zsoltika via Flickr

Last night I babysat for a kid who throws temper tantrums. In the past I used to give in to the tantrum and give the child what they want thinking that if I didn't the kid would tell their parents I was a bad babysitter. Awhile back, I decided to stop giving in. I have been trying to ignore the child's tantrum, and let them cool off. Since then, I have had no complaints, and when I have babysat for the same family again, the tantrum children behave better.

Have you found any good ways to deal with a tantrum being thrown by a kid that is not yours?

Babysitter Safety

Image by Getty Images via Daylife

With the new trend of babysitters marketing themselves online, safety is a huge deal. This means that sitters are putting themselves in possible danger both by not knowing who they are talking to online and by stepping foot in an unknown house. Here are some steps you can take to help you to stay safe:

1. Have the number for someone you trust and call them when you get to the house, and again when the parents leave. This way, if they have not heard from you for a certain amount of time, they can call 9-1-1. Continue to check in with them throughout your time there and when you leave and are home safe.

2. Check with the parents if there are any chemicals or weapons in the house and what allergies or health problems that their children may have. This will help you and the children stay safe.

3. Get the phone number or numbers of the parents in case you have any questions or if there is an emergency. Also, ask them if it is ok to call 9-1-1 in the even of an emergency.

Safety is key when babysitting, so watch out for your self and the children.

Have you ever felt unsafe babysitting? Tell us.