Written by Emily Gastellum
I remember the first family I fell in love with. There were three kids. Connor was 7, and the twins, Caitlyn and Carrie, were 6. They were adorable and well-behaved, and over the years they became more to me than just the kids I babysat.
Iwatched Connor develop a strange fascination for movie reviews. He always knew the general story line of a movie, as well as the rating and other miscellaneous information. Connor also loved to write about anything and everything that was on his mind, and I loved watching him do it.
I made strange concoctions in the kitchen with Caitlyn. This involved taking anything we found in the fridge and throwing it in the blender with ice. She was the leader of the pack and was willing to help with anything and everything I was doing.
Carrie would ask me the same questions consistently. I never got tired of telling her that my favorite color was pink. She loved to go on bike rides, and we went on onealmost every time I watched them. I helped Carrie conquer her fear of the toilet and other loud appliances; we celebrated every victory with a hug and something sweet.
Together we built cardboard houses, had dance parties and ate way too much junk food. When their parents divorced, we cried together.
Connor, Caitlyn and Carrie taught me everything I know about babysitting. They shaped me as much as I did them, and during the process I came up with a list of methods to use as a childcare provider:
- Discover your inner child. I believe that not enough adults know how to play. Sometimes the simplicity of drawing a rainbow can make you feel more accomplished than receiving a good grade on a term paper.
- The money you earn means nothing. It might seem like the money is the best part of the deal, but it’s truly the hugs, love and an endless supply of wall art that make it worthwhile. I have actually kept most of my 8×10-sized gifts; Starbucks and Macy’s probably claimed my profits a long time ago.
- You impact the child more than you think. It’s important to use the time you have (however long or short it is) to have fun and make memories. Television is one of my biggest annoyances for this reason. Instead of filling the time with Sesame Street, go out and play. You will have more fun, and the child will remember it.
- Communication is key in every relationship. Talking to the parent effectively is just as important as talking to the child. No matter what age the child is, talk to her. Although a conversation with a 2-year-old might seem pointless, you are expressing an interest in them — a that’s really they want.
- A love for children should fuel the desire to babysit. Period.
Aside from this list of simple concepts, I believe that every childcare provider should be certified in CPR and first aid. You have to be willing and able to care for a child, and you should be able to save his life if necessary. (Contact your localRed Crosschapter for more information on the certification programs offered.)
With every child I encounter, I remember one verse: “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love” (1 Corinthians 13:13). I believe children embody all of these qualities, and that every child deserves to to have these reciprocated — especially love.
