So your tween or teen is excited to start babysitting—yay! Babysitting is one of those first “real” jobs that teaches responsibility, builds confidence, and helps kids earn their own money while still being close to home.
But before they rush off to their first gig, it’s important to make sure they’re really prepared. Kids who walk into babysitting with a plan feel calmer, act more professional, and are way more likely to get asked back again.
Here are 10 things your tween or teen should do before babysitting—a mix of practical prep and confidence boosters.
📋 1. Make an Emergency Contact Sheet
Before every job, your sitter should have a quick list that includes:
- Parents’ names and numbers
- Backup contact (neighbor or grandparent)
- Home address (in case they need to call 911)
- Any allergies or medical info
👉 Even if parents promise “we’ll text you everything,” having a paper copy means they don’t have to scroll frantically through a phone in the middle of chaos.
🏠 2. Do a Quick Walk-Through
If possible, your tween should ask for a mini “tour” of the house before being left alone. This helps them know:
- Where snacks and cups are kept
- Bathroom locations
- Where to find diapers, wipes, pajamas, etc.
- First-aid kit and flashlight spots
It’s way less stressful if they know where things are before the toddler melts down.
📝 3. Go Over House Rules
Every family has different rules, and kids are quick to point out when “Mom usually lets me!” Having parents outline rules ahead of time avoids drama.
Examples:
- Screen time limits
- Bedtime routines
- Foods that are (or aren’t) allowed
- Whether kids can play outside
A sitter who checks on the rules will stand out as responsible and respectful.
🤔 4. Practice “What If” Scenarios
Babysitting isn’t always smooth sailing. Encourage your tween to role-play a couple of common challenges, like:
- What if the kids argue?
- What if someone refuses to brush teeth?
- What if the power goes out?
Practicing calm responses helps them feel ready for the real thing.
🚨 5. Review Emergency Basics
No one likes to think about emergencies, but a little prep goes a long way. Tweens should know:
- How to dial 911 and what to say
- The difference between a “call parents” problem and a true emergency
- Where exits are in case of fire
Some parents even want sitters to have basic CPR or first aid knowledge, which makes your sitter even more hireable.
🎒 6. Pack a Mini “Go Bag”
Having a babysitter kit is a game-changer. Even just a small folder or bag with:
- A couple of simple games or coloring sheets
- A pen/pencil
- A water bottle
- Hand sanitizer or wipes
It shows the sitter came prepared, which makes kids excited and reassures parents.
👉 Psst—our 👜Booked & Busy Babysitter Kit is perfect for this. It includes printable checklists, forms, and even activities that can slip right into a binder or folder. Complete with a guided walk-through filled with tips to get and keep clients.
👋 7. Plan a Friendly Introduction
Walking in with confidence sets the tone. Something as simple as:
“Hi, I’m [Name]. I can’t wait for us to hang out tonight!”
gets kids excited instead of shy or nervous.
🎲 8. Have a Backup Entertainment Plan
“I’m bored” is every sitter’s nightmare. Encourage your tween or teen to keep a mental list of games and activities that need zero supplies—like Freeze Dance, Simon Says, or I Spy. This can make the difference between a long afternoon of "ugh, never again" and having kids who can't wait for you to come back.
🕒 9. Start with Short Jobs
Babysitting for 6 hours on a first try? Too much. Recommend short sessions to start:
- Helping during nap time
- Playing with toddlers while mom works from home
- A quick after-school hangout before parents get home
This helps them build confidence without being overwhelmed.
✅ 10. Have a Smooth Checkout Routine
When parents get home, sitters should give a quick “report.” A simple rundown like:
- Dinner was eaten
- Kids went to bed on time
- Any small hiccups
It shows maturity and leaves parents feeling great about hiring them again.
Babysitting is exciting—but being prepared makes it way less stressful and a lot more fun. Encourage your tween to use these 10 steps as their “before babysitting” checklist. Parents will notice, kids will respond better, and your sitter will walk away confident (and more likely to get booked again).
👧Is Your Tween Ready to Babysit?
💼 Why Babysitting Is the Perfect First Job
