Jobs for Teens ages 11- 14

Some teens enjoy spending their time standing on their heads. Others like to study or read a book. Sports and other physical activities are another way teens spend their time. Many teens enjoy shopping when they have time and money.

Extra money is always a plus for teens. Teens earn or receive that money in various ways. One way is to work. However, laws are in place that govern how many hours a teen can work and what type of jobs a teen can perform. These laws protect teens from dangerous jobs and insure time for education.

Holding down a part-time job can be a challenge, especially during middle school when school work and activities are an important part of life. There are alternatives to working part time, but still enabling a teen to get some extra cash to invest or spend.

Brain storm some jobs for teens ages eleven to fourteen (11 -14). Put a star* next to the ones that appeal to you.

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What makes a Good Employee?

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An __________________ is a person that performs a service for someone and receives payment for the work.

An _________________ is a person that hires a person to perform a service. It is important to develop good job skills while working as a teen. These skills will help when you apply for part-time or full time employment.

Employees with good work characteristics are important to an employer. Below identify characteristics that employers might look for in a good teen employee.

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Getting Started Whether you do you yard work or baby sit for one family or for many families, your service is considered a business. You will need some basic business tools to help you become successful.

Advertising Your Services

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Business TipIt would be advantageousto have a resume, business card or flyer to give to your client.

When you first start out babysitting or doing yard work, keep safety in mind. The best way to let people know you are available is through word of mouth. Start by talking with relatives and close friends of the family. Never post your name and number in a public place. Do Not advertise on bulletin boards, in a public building or on the internet. Just do a great job, and ask the families you work for to recommend you to the other people they know!

What are some safe ways to advertise your service?

How much will you charge? Don’t be afraid to state a fee you feel is fair for your services. You

need to determine this before you begin to seek employment. Stating a fee shows confidence and maturity. Ask around the neighborhood what parents are paying for services, and that will give you a starting point to determine your rate. You may want to choose a lower fee as you begin working, and then increase your fee as you gain some experience. Write here what you feel is a fair fee .

Screening EmployersEven though you would like to earn Money, you may not want to

work for everyone that requests your services. A screening process will assist you in deciding which jobs to accept and which ones to refuse. Keep in mind your school and family responsibilities when considering a job. Try the following to help you make a decision.

ASAP (A-able, S-Safe, A-available, P –permission) Screening of employers

A - Am I __________________

S - Will I be _______________

A - Am I __________________

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P – Do I have ________________

Never Accept a job that is more than you can handle, or in which you would not feel safe.

Be sure to get the needed information from a prospective employer before accepting the job. Ask the employer questions while thinking the ASAP screening process.

Making the Call Your phone manners are the first impression you will leave with your potential client (the family). You want to speak clearly and without hesitation. There are questions you need to ask the family before taking a babysitting job, so you can determine if the job is right for you. Have a pencil and paper ready so you can write down their responses. Designing a special sheet for responses will help you remember to get all the information you need to know. Always remember to think ASAP when screening employers.

Phone Call Information Sheet Parent’s name(s)

Date and time:

Address:

Phone number

Children's names and ages:

__________________      ____________________________________      __________________

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Business TipYou may want to start an employer file. This will save you from writing down the same information every time.

Transportation:

Discuss your fee: Tell the family how much you charge per hour and ask if that is OK.

For a “first-time” family ask: How did you get my name?

TO END THE CALL SAY:

“I need to talk with my parents and I will call you back.”

Never accept a job from a family without first checking with your parents and if it is a new family, also check references.

Always make sure to return the call and confirm your acceptance or rejection of a babysitting job. Never be afraid to turn down a babysitting job if:

1. _____________________________

2. _____________________________

3. if you do not feel qualified

4. _____________________________

Reasons you may not feel qualified:

__________________________________ Children’s ages __________________________________ Length of job

Once you accept a job you need act responsibly by being on time and act professionally. So let’s get started.

Dressing for success

_____________________. Make sure your clothes are neat and clean and appropriate for the job. Be careful not to wear any large or dangling jewelry that children can grab. Loose clothing and chains can be dangerous. Make sure your shoes are appropriate for any situation.

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Meeting and greeting

The Adult:

Make a good first impression. Be confident and greet the adult with a smile and a confident handshake. For a babysitting job you may want to set up a “getting to know you” meeting at the parent’s home a few days before you’re going to baby sit. If you can’t arrange this, at least show up early on the day you work so you can make sure you get all the information you need.

The Children:

Remember to talk to the children at their eye level. You may want to get on the floor where they are playing, or sit at the table where they are working to introduce yourself.

Are you ready to take on a very important job? Maybe you have already been babysitting, or maybe you would like to be a babysitter, or maybe you never thought about being a babysitter. Being a babysitter is a fun way to spend time with kids while making some extra money. But being a babysitter is all about responsibility. You are the person responsible for a child’s life. Wow, that is a BIG responsibility!

Characteristics of a Great Babysitter

_____________________________: You must always be dependable. You are responsible for the child’s life!

_____________________: Be sure of yourself. The children are looking at the way you look and act as well as what you say.

Show maturity: You need to act calmly and effectively in any situation. You also need to maintain authority and discipline.

___________________: Act in a courteous and mannerly fashion.

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Have a business-like attitude: Realize babysitting is a serious business venture. Make sure you take care of all business aspects of the job and get all the necessary information from the family.

___________________: Keep the children safe at all times and know how to handle any situation.

____________________: Children will know whether you like them or not. A great babysitter usually understands and loves children.

ARE YOU READY TO TAKE THE CHALLENGE??

Information You NeedInformation from Parents

Emergency Numbers

Fire, ambulance (911 may take care of all three), doctors, and poison control center.

________________, family members Address and phone number of the house where you're watching

children

Get the name, address, and telephone number, cell phone number and/or pager number if available of where the parents are going. What time do they expect to return?

Do they expect any phone calls or visitors? If yes, who? And how would they like the door and phone to be answered?

Information about the House

Locks, Alarms, & Extra Keys — Where are they? How do they work? How do the windows work?

____________________ — Ask about flashlights, candles & matches, first aid and cleaning supplies.

___________________ — Make sure you know how to work the can opener, microwave, high chair, infant swing, and anything else you may need while you're watching the children. Ask how to adjust the heat or air conditioning.

________________ — If the family has pets, check to see if they need to be fed or given water. When, what and how much? Can they go outside?

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Miscellaneous —  Take a tour of the home. Find out where everything you'll need is located. Determine the quickest route of escape from children’s rooms in case of fire or other emergency.These are some of the things you may want to check on your house tour.

First Aid Kit Located Yes _____ No _____Fire Extinguishers Located Yes _____ No _____Pen and Paper by Phone Yes _____ No _____Emergency Numbers by PhoneYes _____ No _____Walk Through Completed Yes _____ No _____Outside Lights On Yes _____ No _____

Necessary Information about the Child

1. ___________________________ — When is mealtime? What and how much should the child eat? Are there any food allergies, dislikes or food restrictions? May he/she have a snack? What can he/she eat for a snack? Ask what you may eat and only eat what you are permitted.

2. Medication — Do not give the child any medication unless instructed by the parents. Have them write down the name(s) of the medication, the correct dosage, the time it should be given and if food or a drink should be avoided or given with the medication.

3. ___________________ — Are there special play areas inside or outside the house? Are you allowed to play outside? Are playmates allowed in the yard or house? Is the child allowed to go to a friend's house? If so, what is the address and phone number of that friend? Does the child have any special jobs to do/ any special requirements? Are any toys to be avoided? Can he play on the computer? If yes, what programs can he play with and are there instructions for starting them? Can he watch TV? If yes, how long can he watch and what programs can he watch?

4. _____________________ — When is bedtime? Have there been any problems getting the child to go to bed? Is there a favorite story or bedtime friend, security blanket or pacifier? Where is he/she to sleep? Does he/she have a special bedtime routine? If yes, what is it? What clothes should the child wear to bed? Can she brush her teeth without help?

5. Bath time — Do you need to give the child a bath? Bath time raises safety concerns. Therefore, it is not recommended that a sitter with little experience bathe a child.

6. Toileting – Is a child being potty trained? Are there any special routines in regard to toileting?

7___________ — Are there any house rules that you need to know before the parents depart? Do parents expect you to discipline their child when he/she is misbehaving? If so, what type of behaviors would require disciplinary action

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and what method would they want you to use? Be sure to inform parents of any incidents or concerns.

Safety SavvyA good babysitter always considers safety as a first priority. Take

extra precautions to make sure the children are safe from harm. You should always know where the children are and what they are doing at all times.

Keep the house safe

_____________ all doors and windows when the parents leave. Turn on the front light to the house.

When a call comes in, be careful not to offer any information over the phone. Do not tell anyone you are _______ in the house with the children.Do not use any kitchen appliance without the permission of the parents. If you do need to use an appliance, make sure the children are well out of harms way. Put all things out of the reach of children when preparing foodKnow where the ______ kit, fire extinguisher, and flashlights are

located.Watch for possible dangers such as matches, electrical cords,

sharp objects, cleaners, medicines, tools, etc. Put up any possible dangers so they are out of reach of the children.

Do not allow strangers into the house unless the people you are babysitting for leave specific instructions for you to let someone in. Do not open the door, and ask for their identification if you do not know them.Do not use the ____________________ or any other electronic equipment without their permission.

Keep the children safe

Keep gates across stairways, or doors to stairways , to prevent children from falling.

Do not allow children to climb or jump on furniture or other things.Keep the children from windows and doors.Know where the children are at all times. Even when they are

sleeping, check on them every ______________________. leave a baby unattended on a changing

table, high chair, or walker. Use safety straps when they are available.

Do not bathe a child unless you are an experienced sitter. ___________ a child alone in the bathtub. It only takes a few seconds for a child to drown. If the doorbell or phone rings, ignore it.

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If there is a pool at the house, __________ allow the children near the pool when they are in your care.

General Safety Rules

Do not allow your _______ to come over and visit while you are babysitting. It is hard to watch children when you are socializing with friends.

If you have brought homework to do, try and do it when the children are .

Do not use the phone for longer than a few minutes. You are there to watch small children and it only takes a second for something to go terribly wrong.

Follow any other rules as instructed by the parent. If you ever become annoyed or bothered by a situation, call a trusted adult to come and help you. Never let yourself get .

How to React in an Emergency

Post the and information close to the phone or in a place where they are readily available.Take a copy of a with you on your job.Let the child and other children in the house know you are competent and of the situation.Do not leave the injured child. Call a or other adult to help you watch the other children if needed. Keep all the children where you can see them at all times.Stay with younger children to insure their safety. Talk in _______________, soothing tones, and smile, even if you are not confident at the moment.Decide whether to call ______ or the parents. When in doubt, call 911 or the center first (800-222-1222), and tell them you are the babysitter.

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Business Tip

ALWAYS STAY CALM.You want to remain calm and react toa situation in a mature manner. By staying calm, you will help the children remain calm.

Remember:Some of the most common accidents in the home are poisoning, choking, burns, electrocution, and injuries from falls.

THIS IS AN EMERGENCY

Directions: Listed below is the information you should give when calling to report an emergency. Look in the local phone book, and then write down the numbers.

AMBULANCE ______________________________________________

POLICE ___________________________________________________

FIRE ______________________________________________________

DOCTOR___________________________________________________

FATHER’S WORK __________________________________________

MOTHER’S WORK _________________________________________

POISON CONTROL CENTER _______________________________

NEIGHBOR _________________________________________________

WHEN YOU CALL: Say

o “THIS IS AN EMERGENCY!o I am the baby sitter,o My Name is_____”o I have/have not called the parents

Remain calm Give the address and phone number of where you are sitting Speak clearly and state the problem Tell what kind of emergency you have and how many people are

involved State the injury and what has been done

STAY ON THE LINE UNTIL THE PERSON TO WHOM YOU ARE SPEAKING TELLS YOU TO HANG UP!

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Infant choking(Under 1 year)

If an infant begins to choke, they may cough, gag, or attempt to cry. What should you do?

Remain Calm and in Control

- As long as the baby is breathing on its own watch the infant. - DO NOT PAT OR SLAP the baby on its back. That may move the

object further down his windpipe.

If the Infant stops making noises or begins to turn blue you will need to perform the Heimlich maneuver

- Place the infant over yourarm with its head lower than its body.

- Keep the head stable by sandwiching the infant between your two hands and arms.

- Give the infant 4 – 5 forcefulback blows between theshoulder blades with the heel of your hand.

- Turn the infant over, keepingit sandwiched between your hands.Place it face up on your thigh withit’s head lower than its body.

- Give 5 quick, downward chest thrusts with your fingers on theinfant’s chest below the nipple line.

- Keep repeating the back blowsand chest thrusts until the babycries or the object comes out.

- Call the parent after the infantcoughs up the object.- Call 911 if the infant goes unconscious

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Child or adult chokingIf a child begins to choke they may cough, gag, or have

trouble breathing. At this point encourage the child to keep coughing.

The universal sign for choking is clutching one’s neck.

Remain Calm and in ControlIf the child stops coughing or gives the universal sign for choking you will need to perform the Heimlich maneuver.

Stand behind the victim and place your leg between his legs for support.

Wrap your arms under his arms

Make one hand into a fist and pressthe thumb side into the belly, just abovethe navel, but below the lower tip of thebreast bone.

Grab your fist with your other hand and give quick, forceful, upward, abdominal thrusts.

Repeat the above technique until theobject comes out.

After 5 thrusts, check the position ofyour hands.

Call the parents after the child coughsup the object.

Call 911 if the child goes unconscious.

What is Child Development?13

______________________ is how children grow and mature – physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially.

Whether you plan to baby sit your little brother or the kids down the street, it is important to understand why children act the way they do. Even if you do not plan on babysitting, you may interact with family members and friends that have young children. Children act differently at various ages. Knowing what to expect of children at different ages and stages makes your time with them more enjoyable.

Children develop at different rates physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. At certain ages children can be expected to follow various stages of development.

These guidelines are called __________________________ For example, infants can sit up on their own between 7 – 9 months. However, not all children grow and develop at the same rate. Some infants sit up alone at six months, while others wait till ten months of age. It is important to understand the ages and stages of child development, whether physical, intellectual, or social and emotional.

Examples of ___________________ development include rolling over, riding a bike, climbing stairs, and grasping an object.

Smiling, singing, and interacting with others are examples of

_________________ development.

Examples of development are learning to talk, recognizing colors and shapes, and beginning to read.

Age GroupsEarly childhood is divided into four major age groups

Infants: Children under the age of 1

Toddlers: Children between the ages of 1 – 2 years

Preschoolers: Children that are 3, 4, or 5 years old

School age: Children between the ages of 6 – 10

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Newborn or Infant

An _________________ is a child from birth to one year of age. The term Newborn is used to describe an infant during his first month of life.

The care of infants less than six months of age can be challenging. It is a good idea to have some experience

babysitting before taking on the responsibility of an infant under six months. An infant grows and develops rapidly during the first

six months of life.

What developmental tasks can be expected of an infant? Look below for some ways infants grow and develop. The typical age in months is in the parenthesis.

Grasps a rattle (2) Smiles (2) Crawls (7-9)

Rolls over (3-6) Waves (10-12) Sees bright colored objects (2)

Supports own head (6) Sits up alone (7-9) Throws ball (10 – 12)Pulls self up to a standing position (9-12) Play pat-a cake (10 – 12)

Toddlers

A child who is 1 to 2 years old is called a ____________. The term toddler is used to describe the unsteady walk of a child this age. Once they are walking, toddlers move quickly. They are full of energy and like to explore everything. Toddlers begin to show and enjoy some independence. “No” is one of their favorite words.

What development tasks can be expected of a toddler? Look below for some ways toddlers grow and develop.

Walks Uses a spoon Identifies picturesUndresses self

Climbs stairs Turns pages of a book Begins toilet training

Drinks from a cup Builds with blocks Plays with puppets

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Pre-Schoolers

Children ages 3, 4, or 5 are _______________. Preschoolers are a fun age. As a new care giver,

this is a good age to baby sit. Preschoolers can do many things for themselves and enjoy interacting with other children and adults. However, remember never leave a child alone or unattended. This age group still needs supervision and guidance.

What development tasks can be expected of a preschooler? Look below for some ways preschoolers grow and develop.

Feeds and dresses self Recognizes colors Repeats rhymes, songs

Brushes teeth (may need assistance) Speaks in sentences

Begins to play with others Rides a tricycle Can open doors

Presses buttons on phone keypad Takes off shoes, socks, pants

Has more control of own toileting needs Washes hands and face

School Age Children between 6 to 10 years of age are_________________ .

This is a fun age to baby sit as they are social and like to play games.

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This age group is more coordinated with art and complex craft projects. Often, School age children need a companion to keep them safe and secure.

What to expect from Children at different Ages (And How to Handle)

Infants (Birth to 1 year)

Characteristics How to Handle - Cry when hungry,

uncomfortable, tired, bored - Babies like to be around others- Enjoy looking at hands, faces,

patterns, bright colors- Need to feel safe, secure- Babbles, chuckles, laughs, and

makes sounds (ma-ma, da-da)- Puts objects, hands, feet, almost

anything into their mouth(safety)

- Never leave a baby unattended- Never leave a baby alone on a

changing table, or any high surface

- Know how to feed and bathe a baby

- Wash your hands before feeding a baby. Follow the parent’s guidelines for foods to give to the child

- Know how to change a diaper and dispose of the dirty diaper according to parent instructions

- Wash your hands thoroughly after changing a baby’s diaper

- Handle a baby carefully- Always support an infant’s head- Be careful not to “toss” a baby up

and down- Babies need constant attention- Check frequently on infant while

they are asleepExpectations for infants

Newborn babies will sleep many hours each day. Newborns eat every few hours. As the baby begins to grow he will sleep and eat less often. It is very important to follow the baby’s schedule when caring for an infant.

The most important thing to remember with infants is SAFETY. Safety is extremely important with all ages of children.

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Babies put many objects into their mouth. Watching an infant takes patience and understanding. Always support an infants head until he can hold it up on his own. NEVER SHAKE A BABY!! No matter how frustrated or angry you feel, the infant is unaware of what he is doing. Shaking a baby can cause brain damage or even death to the child. If you get that angry call the parent or your parent for assistance.

Toddlers (1 and 2 Year olds)

Characteristics How to Handle- Needs attention, love, and

security- Wants to develop independence- Can follow simple instructions- Walks on own, runs, jumps,

climbs- May like to be cuddled- May initiate play- Very curious, pokes and probes

with fingers- Enjoys building activities,

guessing games, singing songs, dances

- Likes to play hide and seek (but watch where they hide

- Has a short attention span- Developing self help routines:

eating, drinking, dressing- Has favorite routines- Becomes easily frustrated- May have temper tantrums- Likes repetition of activities - Says “no” a lot (learns

meaning)- Begins to use simple words and

talk in complete sentences- Begins toilet training - Imitates adult activities and

words (watch what you say and do)

- This age group needs constant attention

- Don’t let them play with anything smaller than a child’s fist

- Change activities often- Wash your hands before feeding

the toddler - Use a bib as toddlers can be messy- Use unbreakable cups and bowls- Cut food into small pieces- Child may use fingers or small

utensils to eat- Give small amounts of food at a

time (Safety- watch for choking)- Help child with toileting needs

(diaper or using the toilet)- Wash your hands thoroughly after

changing a diaper or assisting a child with toilet needs

- Child may take naps- As bedtime gets closer, calm the

child down with quiet activities- Help child get dressed and ready

for bedtime- Change diaper or assist with toilet

needs before child goes to bed- Check on child once he is in bed

and asleep

Expectations for Toddlers

Safety is important with toddlers. They want to explore and try everything. Make sure chemicals and medicines are out of the reach of toddlers. Toddlers like to follow a routine. They often get frustrated because they want to do an activity, but may not have the skills to do it.

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Toddlers like to have stories read to them. This can be a tiring, yet fun age.

Pre-Schoolers (Ages 3, 4, 5)

Characteristics How to Handle- Might say “why” often- Imaginary playmates are

common for this age group- Likes to think he is in charge- Sleeps less- Is more independent- Often doesn’t want to go to bed- May have a bedtime routine- Likes quiet activities before bed- Enjoys being read stories- Wants to control body functions- May still be toilet training- Does some activities by self:

dress, toileting, wash hands, feed self, brush teeth

- Has broad vocabulary and talks in complete sentences

- Is social with others- Enjoys simple games- May be active, rambunctious- Can throw and catch a ball

- Never leave this age group alone- May need comforting or distraction

when parent leaves- Wash your hands before preparing

food- Have child wash their hands before

eating- Remind child to use the toilet- Remind child to wash hands after

using the toilet- Wash your hands after assisting

child with toilet needs- Calm the child down with quiet

activities before bedtime- Be sure to follow bedtime routine- Child may need some assistance in

changing clothes, brushing teeth, washing hands

- Make sure child goes to the bathroom before bed

- Still check on every half hour once child is asleep

- Make the child feel safe and secure if they have a bad dream

Expectations for Preschoolers

Preschoolers are still very active and curious children. They enjoy playing games, having stories read to them, listening to music, and playing dress up. They often imitate what they see around them. Some preschoolers think they can fly or jump off buildings like their favorite hero or cartoon character. Remember to keep a close eye on preschoolers. Safety of a child this age is still important. Some preschoolers have imaginary friends that they talk to and play games with them. This age thrives on following daily routines.

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School Age Kids (6 and older)

Characteristics How to Handle- Many interests and asks many

questions- Might argue that something’s

“not fair”- Wants to be responsible- Enjoys board games, arts and

crafts- Likes to talk about their

interests- May not want a baby sitter- Able to perform daily routines

such as feeding themselves, dressing self

- Develops more self-confidence- Controls body eliminations- Influenced by examples and

expectations of adults- Needs to socialize with others

outside of the family- May be jealous of time and

attention given to younger siblings

- Have definite activities in mind for this age group

- Keep this age group busy- Remind this age to wash their

hands before eating and after using the bathroom

- Be firm about enforcing parents rules

- Children this age can feed themselves, but still watch for choking

- Plan quiet activities before bed time to calm the child down

- Child can usually change own clothes and brush teeth by self

- Remind child to go to the bathroom before bed

Expectations for School age children

This age group enjoys the company of a teen baby sitter. Remember to follow the parent’s rules for foods, television, friends, and bed time. Only use the computer with this age group if the parent gives permission.

Remember you still are in charge and are taking the role of parent when baby sitting. Keep an eye on this age group and provide a safe and caring environment.

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Secrets to Fix Problem BehaviorTime-out Distraction Make A Game Give Choices When...Then

Take a break and start over. Break is one minute for every year of child’s age. Must not be used under the age of two. May be time in a chair within view time without a toy...time without TV or video or DVD

Find something fun for the child to focus on. Sing a song, play a game, read a story ask to see their room put in a favorite video

Turn a task into something fun to do. Let’s race to see who can pick up the toys the fastest.

Offer the child simple choices while insisting on what needs to be done. Which pj’s would you like to wear the Curious George ones or your space invaders?

Promise something the child wants after the child does what he has to do.When you finish brushing your teeth then I’ll read you a story.

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Fun with Children

To be everyone’s favorite babysitter you need to _______________ with kids. What kids want most is your attention. Most likely they’ll enjoy anything you suggest as long as you do it together. Children learn many skills through play.

INFANTS - Children under one year of age

Playing helps infants get the exercise they need. Remember infants have _____________ attention spans and are frequently interested in a toy or activity for only a few short minutes. By throwing a toy they learn to control their muscles. They learn to use their hands for lifting, turning, holding, and reaching. Infants learn to use their legs for climbing, kicking and crawling By patting, throwing, pulling, pushing, pounding, banging and stacking they learn how to handle toys.

Suggestions for entertaining infants Rocking, cuddling Playing a music box or singing lullabies Letting baby look in mirror Play peek-a-boo, pat-a-cake, stroller ride , “This Little Piggy” Rolling ball to baby Hiding toy behind back Pretend you can’t find the baby Point out and name stuffed animals

Age Appropriate toys

Infants need bright colored toys of many textures. Because infants put everything in their mouths, toys should be non-breakable, washable and have no sharp edges. They should be large enough so they cannot be swallowed and not contain small pieces which could be pulled off and choke infants.

Good choices may include:Unbreakable mirror, rattles, squeeze toys, stuffed toys, cloth ball and blocks, stacking toys, nesting toys, soft books, simple picture books, noise making toys, and music-making toys.

Toddlers Play

Toys are the tools of the toddler (children between the age of one and two). Toddlers are active and enjoy climbing, running and jumping. They need toys to meet these needs. Playing helps children develop their minds, bodies, and social skills. Toddlers are curious and

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spend much of their time exploring. Most toddlers play alone or watch others play. They engage in _______________ which means they are happy to play alongside of, rather than with a friend. They are just beginning to learn to share toys with others. The idea of taking turns or sharing means little to a two year old.

They are also interested in doing things with their hands as the small muscles in their fingers become more developed. Toys should be simple and require little coordination.

Toddlers enjoy hide and seek building blocks and knocking them down action toys such as toy sweepers, lawn mowers , wagons

carts toys that let them play grownup- telephone, dishes, tool

boxes dolls outdoor play- balls, sandbox, swings, slides, exploring stuffed animals or puppets children’s songs and finger games, Itsy Bitsy Spider, Row,

Row, Row Your Boat making music with toy instruments dancing creative coloring cardboard boxes

Age Appropriate ToysTricycle, riding toys, crayons, books, blocks, blunt scissors, chalk Play-doh

Playtime for Preschoolers

Play helps preschoolers (ages 3, 4 or 5) learn to get along with many people and make friends with other children. Progressing beyond parallel play, preschoolers enjoy ___________________ . Benefits include:

seeing the value in taking turns and in sharing with others learning how to get along and play with a group having opportunities to help others continuing to develop their bodies by running, climbing and

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becoming more creative getting practice in solving problems

Suggestions for entertaining preschoolers

Quiet playBefore meals and bedtime quiet play can help children relax and help develop imagination. Board games such as Candyland or Chutes and Ladders Imaginative games-playing school, store or spaceship Stories and books help with language skills and encourage

reading Puzzles Puppets Creative materials –paper, crayons Letter writing Card games

Active Play Taking a walk Hunting for treasures- rock, pine cone scavenger hunt Tag Hide and seek Riding toys Swing sets Sports-basketball, flag football, soft volleyball, softball

Age Appropriate toys include dolls to dress, modeling dough, puzzles, musical games, trucks, trains, outdoor gym equipment

School Age Play

The school-age child is between the ages of 6 to 10 and usually is the age with the greatest challenge. They are developing many interests and want to be responsible. They may __________________ a babysitter but may be jealous of time and attention given to younger children. They need definite plans for amusement and may argue that something is not fair.

The best method for handling children in this age category is to show love and acceptance and to build their self-confidence by praising and making children feel useful and important. Try to understand things from their point of view and make each child feel special. Keep them busy and active. Activities with this age group can be a lot of fun.

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Suggestions for Entertaining School Age Children

Artwork and craftsBoard gamesWord gamesReading

Outside Activities

Playing catchBasketballCatching FrisbeesJumping rope

Dealing with Children’s BehaviorA child misbehaving is the most common problem you will have when you are babysitting.Knowing what children are like at different ages makes behavior problems easier to understand and deal with. The best strategy is to avoid behavior problems before they start. Children who are out of control are not happy, may harm themselves or others. As a babysitter, you accept the responsibility to be in control of the child you are watching. You must also be able to control your own behavior.

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You must be patient and not lose your temper when a child is out of control.

_______________________________.Understand what the child is like at various ages. Just before you go to your job, review the information about the age of the child you will be caring for.

_______________________.

Request and suggest instead of order and command. We all feel the same way; we respond better to positive suggestions than to negative ones. For example, you might say, “Walk over here with me,” instead of “Don’t walk on the grass.

Give an older child fair warning before you do something.Be gentle but firm. Don’t let the child talk you out of your decision. For example, you might say, “As soon as this TV show is finished, it will be time to get ready for bed.

Enforce the rules of the parent’s house.Children may test a new babysitter to find out what rules will be enforced. Knowing familiar rules is a form of security for the child.

_________________________ are a temporary loss of control.Most children have them occasionally. Stay calm. A temper tantrum is a normal childhood experience. Don’t let your tempers flare. Don’t walk off and leave the child. The best thing to do may be to let the child cry or give a reassuring hug. Tell the parents about any temper tantrums and how you responded.

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Discipline is helping the child learn self-control. It is not punishment. Punishment is physically, emotionally, or verbally hurting a child.

Never spank or hit a child. Try to discipline by using consequences.For example, you might say: “We’ll have to put your tricycle away if you continue to bump into people.” You must follow through. Toddlers might just need a time-out .Time-out rule of thumb is one minute for each year of age. Time-out may be time without a toy, television or computer game or it may be sitting in a chair. NEVER put the child in the dark. Time-out is not to be used with children younger than 2 years of age.

________________ does not have to be difficult time for a sitter. Avoid problems by letting the child know 15-30 minutes ahead of time that bedtime is approaching. Wind down with quiet activities such as songs or stories.

Behavior becomes a problem when:The sitter _________________________________________.The sitter expects too much of the child.The sitter does not enforce the parent’s rules.The sitter _________________________________________.

Children lose control when:

The child is bored.The child is _______________.The child wants something that he or she can’t have.The child wants attention.The behavior usually works to get what is wanted.The child is too young to know the rules.

Behavior Problems Happen:27

_______________________________________When children are overexcited or playing too hardWhen children have been playing together too longWhen children need help solving a problem

To Prevent Behavior problemsReward and praise good behavior.Act quickly when you see a child is losing control.Get help quickly if you can’t control child’s behavior.

Business Tip:Always remember!Remain Calm.

Stay in control of yourself. Stay in control of the children.

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