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Making it Fun:
Having a babysitter over for kids is typically an enjoyable time. They get someone who focuses most of their attention directly on them. They also typically have special treats such as pizza for dinner, desert before bed or a new toy from the parents. All of these things are great; however, here are a few small tips to revamping your babysitting techniques and making things more fun for both you and the children.
- Crafts, Crafts, Crafts. Depending on the ages of the children, crafts are a great idea to pass the time, have an organized activity, create something fun for the parents to see and allow the kids to express themselves. Kids typically color a lot, so try to mix it up. Bring things from around your house such as paper towel roles, paper plates, coffee filters, brown bags etc. Be creative and help the kids to make telescopes, hats, puppets, flowers or much more. Looking for ideas? The links at the bottom of the page will help to get you started. Also, check out this youtube clip for an idea of supplies to get the craft table started.
- Try playing new games with the kids. Think back to when you were younger and use those games. Some examples are red light green light, simon says, duck duck goose, hangman, mother may I, or hide and seek. These games typically work better when you have several children close to the same age; however, you can make your own variations for different age levels.
- Depending on ages again, allow the children to help you prepare a snack or meal. Little ones typically enjoy mixing in ingredients and suprisingly enough, setting the table. You could even pretend like you are on a cooking show. Also on the line of food, you could always bring a special snack with you. Maybe make something fun at home that you think the kids will enjoy more than pretzels or cut up apples.
- If it's okay with the parents, take the kids somewhere. It can be as simple as a walk around the block, going to the park or a "nature walk" around the yard. If you drive it could be to McDonald's for lunch, to the mall or even to the grocery store. Even though its not something too exciting, the kids love a change of pace, especially if you are their regular babysitter.
- Sing and dance with the kids. As ridiculous as you may feel, the kids are sure to love it. Teach them a song you loved growing up or ask them to teach you one of their favorites. This activity will not only be fun for the kids, but it will also get out a lot of energy. If you teach the kids a new song, be prepared to show it to the parents when they return home, as the kids will probably be rather excited to "perform".
- Try having a theme day. Revolve all the activites around a theme. Possibly create a meal, craft and game all around the same theme. A fun one is a beach theme. Let the kids wear their bathing suits around the house for a while, make umbrellas out of paper plates, bring a beach ball with you for a fun game, lay beach towels on the floor for a movie or have boardwalk fries as a snack. You could even be the lifegaurd and bring a whistle for fun. The theme doesn't have to be anything complex. It can be something simple like animals, pirates or astrounauts. Just be creative. Remember, they are kids and will love any activity you give them.