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The Thin Blue Line's Information Section
 

 

 

 

A GUIDE TO BABYSITTING 

Adian Hunter

The Blue Bar of the Law

TIPS BEFORE EMPLOYMENT 

Don't advertise your name in local shops. (Strangers will know your name and telephone number.)

WHEN YOU ARE ASKED TO BABY-SIT

     

  • BE BUSINESSLIKE AND STATE CLEARLY: The days and hours you are able to work. Your experience (e.g. infants - 6 yr. old etc.) What rate of pay you consider to be fair.

     

  • BE CAUTIOUS: Don't accept employment if you do not know the person calling. Ask them who recommended you. Call that person and then call back the employer to confirm dates. Tell your parents if you are suspicious of the employer. Don't hitchhike or accept rides from strangers on the way to the job.

     

  • LEAVE A NOTE FOR YOUR PARENTS REGARDING: Name, address and telephone number where you will be working. Time you expect to be home and how you will get there.

     

  • OBTAIN SPECIFIC INFORMATION: Note parents name, address, and phone number. (Business phone number, if necessary). Ask if they are near bus routes. Number of children and their ages. Transportation and escort that will be provided to and from the job. Even if you only live a few doors away, an escort is desirable. Your parents or employer is responsible to make certain you are home safely.

 

BABY-SITTING ON THE JOB

On arrival at children's home obtain complete instructions from parents. Place and phone numbers where parents can be reached. (Both names should be noted i.e. John and Mary Smith).

Name and phone number of family doctor, friend or trusted neighbour.

Instructions for incoming phone calls. Point out locations of phones. Place paper and pen by the phone.

If someone calls, take the message, tell them parents will be home shortly.

Information about locking doors and windows. Lights to be left on. Bed time rules for baby / older children.

Special instructions: nappies, baby bottle, bedtime snacks, use of radio and television. "Lights out", snacks for sitter.

Special instructions if tradesmen or visitors are expected. If no instructions are left, do not let anyone in.
 
  WHEN THE PARENTS LEAVE, REMEMBER YOU ARE THE ACTING PARENT. YOU ARE IN CHARGE.

 

GUARD AGAINST STRANGERS 

  • Check and lock all doors and windows.
  • Don't unlock doors for anyone. Except in an emergency.
  • If you hear strange noises or see a prowler call police on 4472-0099, if someone is smashing the door or window ring 000.
  • Never talk to strangers if you have the children outside. Never let the children out of your sight. If someone bothers you, tell someone - immediately!

 

IN CASE OF FIRE 

First get the children out of the house. (Don't wait to dress them.) Then call the Fire Service on 0-0-0 from a neighbours house.

 

GUARD AGAINST ACCIDENTS 

Pick up toys left on stairs and passageways.

Be alert to possible child hazards. (medicine / pills, poisons, dangerous utensils, electrical PowerPoint's, matches.)

Check frequently on children's play. Watch out for mischief, especially if they suddenly become very quiet.

Do not operate appliances or equipment unless permission is given.

 

YOU ARE A GUEST

  • Take food only if you have permission, eat moderately. Wash dishes you have used.
  • Don't smoke unless you have permission.
  • Don't "explore". Don't open cupboards or drawers or read personal letters.
  • Don't allow friends to visit you while you are sitting, or tell them your whereabouts.
  • Avoid making personal phone calls. Keep phone available for incoming calls for parents.
  • Don't make gossip comments about the people you are sitting for.

 

WHEN THE PARENTS RETURN 

Report any unusual incidents with the children, phone calls, or visitors. Accept escort home as planned. However, if escort is intoxicated insist on calling your parents for a ride or take a taxi .