My twelve-year-old son recently took a local community education course that taught him the finer points of babysitting. The course was over six hours in length, probably got him out of his comfort zone in a non-sport environment and he now can administer some level of first aid.
Babysitter’s Training has been developed by the American Red Cross with input from youth just like you. The course is fun and fast-paced with hands-on activities, exciting video, role-plays and lively discussions. You’ll learn to be the best babysitter on the block. Plus, you’ll gain the confidence to make smart decisions and stay safe in any babysitting situation. Bring lunch and babydoll.
Sounds good to me.
Naturally, he came home eager to put his new found skills to use! My wife started networking on his behalf, letting a few families know that he recently completed a course and was available to entertain their kids. One family already took the bait and started doing their due diligence.
My son’s response to the “How much do you charge per hour?” question has caused my wife and I, albeit silently, to have a good laugh. He is thinking that five dollars/hour is a fair wage for being a babysitter. My wife and I have never had to pay a babysitter in the last twelve years. We have been very lucky to have my mom close and available, so we don’t actually know if five dollars/hour is the going rate but we can only guess that it’s not.
I think we’re going to let him learn on his own what his time is worth. He’s happy. So we’re happy.
Schulte in Minnesota 