👶First time babysitting? what to ask parents, emergency prep and how to keep the kids safe.

Your Ultimate Survival Guide to Keeping Kids Happy, Safe & Sane (Including You)

So… you just booked your first babysitting gig

🎉You're about to step into a role that’s equal parts camp counselor, snack artist, safety officer, and bedtime wizard. Feeling nervous? Totally normal. But with a little prep (and this guide in your back pocket), you’re going to handle it like a pro.

Whether you're looking after a chatty toddler, a wild preschooler, or a duo of high-energy siblings, here’s everything you need to walk in with confidence and walk out a superstar.

💬 Before the Parents Leave: Ask These Questions!

Think of this as your pre-shift briefing. Asking the right questions sets you up for success and shows the parents you’re responsible and prepared.

✅ Must-Know Details:

• 📍 Where will you be? (Full address + best contact number)

• 🕰️ When will you be home? (So you can plan bedtime, cleanup, and wind-down)

• 📱 Best number to call you on? (Double-check it works!)

• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Is anyone else expected? (Relatives, roommates, neighbors, etc.)

🍼 About the Kids:

• 🍽️ Any allergies or restricted foods? (Crucial!)

• 💊 Do they need meds? (When, how much, and where it’s stored)

• 🧸 Comfort items or routines? (Teddy? Blankie? A song before bed?)

• 😴 What’s bedtime like? (Bath, story, lights out by…?)

• 💩 Potty situation? (Are they toilet trained? Diapers? Night pull-ups?)

🚨 Emergency Readiness:

• 📞 Backup emergency contacts (if parents can’t be reached)

• 🚪 Home address posted somewhere visible (you’ll need it for 911)

• 🧯 Location of the first aid kit, flashlights, and fire extinguisher

💡 Pro Tip: Bring a little notebook or a printed "Babysitter Info Sheet" to fill in , it makes you look super organized and saves everyone time.

🚨 Emergency Prep: What to Know Before You Need It

Emergencies are rare, but being prepared makes all the difference.

🧠 Know the Basics:

• Map out all exits 🔓

• Find the first aid kit 🩹

• Check for flashlights or night lights in case of power outage 🔦

If Something Goes Wrong:

1. Stay calm : you’re the grown-up, and kids will look to you for cues.

2. Call 911 for fire, choking, serious injury, or someone unresponsive.

3. Call the parents immediately after contacting emergency services.

4. Poisoning? Call Poison Control right away:📞 Canada: 1-844-POISON-X (1-844-764-7669)

📱 Keep your phone charged and on you. Never leave the kids alone , even to grab your phone from another room.

🛡️ Babysitting Safety: Do’s & Don’ts

✅ DO:

• Keep sharp objects, cords, and cleaning products out of reach 🔪

• Supervise at all times, especially around stairs, windows, or pets 🐾

• Lock all doors once the parents leave 🔒

• Stick to the family routine (meals, bedtime, tech rules) 🕰️

• Stay in the same room as the kids 👀

❌ DON’T:

• Share photos of the kids online 🚫

• Let strangers in, unless cleared in advance 🚪

• Leave kids alone (even briefly) . Bring them with you if needed 👶

• Ignore your gut ,if something feels off, call the parents or 911 🧠

🧃 Feeding & Fun: Keep It Simple and Safe

🍽️ Mealtime:

• Ask about off-limits foods and allergies ⚠️

• Cut food into small pieces (especially grapes, carrots, hot dogs) 🍇

• Stick to water or milk unless otherwise allowed 🥛

🧸 Activities:

Choose quiet, creative, or movement-based games like:

• Drawing or coloring 🎨

• Reading stories 📚

• Imaginative play (dolls, action figures, pretend kitchen) 👩‍🍳

• Board games or puzzles 🧩

• A parent-approved movie 🎬

📵 Avoid scrolling your phone during playtime ; be present. It builds trust, and kids love it!

🌙 Bedtime: The Final Boss Level

Taming bedtime can be tricky but it doesn’t have to be!

Here's how to win:

• Follow their routine exactly (same book, same song, same order)

• Speak calmly and move slowly to set the tone 🧘

• Use dim lighting and soft voices to signal it’s wind-down time 🕯️

• If they cry or call for their parents, reassure them gently:💬 “You’re safe. Mom and Dad will be home soon. I’m right here.”

Once they're asleep, do a quiet check-in after a while. And bonus points if you…

🧹 Tidy Up Before They Get Home!

You don’t need to deep clean, but:

• Put away toys 🧸

• Rinse dishes or load the dishwasher 🍽️

• Straighten up the living room

📦 Parents will love coming home to a calm, clean space. It’s a pro move that sets you apart.

💡 Final Tips for First-Time Babysitters

✔️ Arrive early to get the house tour and instructions

✔️ Dress comfy ; you’ll be moving around a lot

✔️ Bring a quiet activity or game just in case

✔️ Stay off your phone (unless it's an emergency or check-in)

✔️ Trust your instincts; your safety matters too

🎉 You’re Ready!

Babysitting is a big responsibility, yes, but also a huge opportunity to build trust, make some money, and learn how to care for others. With clear communication, prep, and kindness, you’ll go from first-timer to family favorite in no time.

Now go rock that first gig!!!