Caring for somebody else’s baby or babysitting can be a fulfilling job but is it accompanied by a great responsibility.  A baby sitting guide should always be followed because the baby’s life will be in your hands.  The best advice most professional baby sitters would give is to treat the baby as your own for the period of time that he is under your watch.  There are some essential things you need to be aware of before letting the parents leave the baby into your hands.

Emergency contact numbers, addresses, closest neighbors

The parents would probably give them to you as they are also concern with baby updates but just in case they are in a hurry, you had better ask them for their contact numbers.  This does not only refer to office phone numbers but mobile numbers as well.  You also need to know the exact address of the house.  This might be in handy when you call for help and they asked for your exact location.  It does not also hurt if you can ask the parents of any neighbor they are close to, just in case you will be needing help.

Special Medication Needs or Allergies

Not all babies are healthy.  Unfortunately some have medical conditions that you need to know.  This is one of the most important aspects of the baby sitting guide checklist.  Ask the parents if the baby has any type of allergies.  The baby might even develop a fever or cold under your watch and so it is best to ask the parents what are the usual medications that you should give him. Discuss this carefully with them as some parents do not allow babysitters to give any kid of medication.  This will also give you an idea on what type of baby sitting games you need to play with the baby.

Mealtimes, Snacks, Beverages

Babies are always seemed hungry as they like to chew on everything their hands can reach.  It is vital that you ask what type of food they are allowed to give.  Generally, most parents have prepared something for the baby and the only thing you need to ask is the feeding time and the frequency.  You need to ask these things especially if they have some strict specifications. Ask for any mealtime routine that the baby so as to ensure his comfort during feeding time.

Playtime and Naptime

Aside from eating, babies love to play and sleep.  You should ask the parents if the baby got any sleeping ritual or something that he needs to have while sleeping.  It can also be something that he likes to do before sleeping.  They cannot communicate well so it is your responsibility to know how to provide them with comfort.  Playing is also a big thing for them and there are baby sitting games that are can fully entertain them.  Ask how to act around the baby when they get fussy during playtime. Most parents have rules on how to deal with misbehavior.

This baby sitting guide will help you in making sure that you have a happy and secure baby during your time with them.  Nothing beats to handing the baby back to their parents safe and sound.

Keywords: baby sitting guide, baby sitting games, baby sitting, caring of baby, how to watch your baby

Are the children you are babysitting popular for their endless crying sprees that can rock the whole house down? If yes, then it is probably time to sit down and play some exciting games to distract them from their tantrums. Here are great ideas for baby sitting games that you can play with these little ones.

Charades

A guessing game is always a fun activity to do. It is even more fun if you get to act it out. Be sure to choose items that are easy for children to guess so that they will not get frustrated during the game. You can choose to act out cartoon characters or scenes from their favorite movies. You can also make them guess known sports, famous personalities, and even family members.

Board Games

Board games are much quieter but just as enjoyable as most games. There is a multitude of board games you can choose from but you may have to do with what is available. Some of the common choices include snakes and ladders, monopoly, chess, checkers, and so many more.

You can also create your own board game to make things more interesting. The characters in the board game can be you and the children and the purpose of the board game is for all of you to go into some kind of adventure. This will surely be a hit among the kids as they can choose whatever adventure they want and they can also play their own characters.

Hide and Seek

Nothing is more classic than a game of hide and seek. Even at this age of Internet and computer games, an outdoor hide and seek game would still provide fits of laughter and enjoyment for little kids. Just be sure that the kids do not hide out in places that you cannot find. Better yet, be the lookout and do not join the game so you know where everyone has gone hiding.

Imaginative Pretend Plays

Imaginative pretend plays are great for all ages. You can set up a scenario and everyone can take on roles to play. You can even create costumes for the kids to really get into the act! One example would be a princess trapped in the castle to be rescued by a young valiant prince. Another scenario can be about two little kids who found a magical stone that can turn animals into human beings. Let the kids imagination fly and they will surely take you to a world you cannot imagine yourself.

Some Factors to Consider when Choosing a Game

• Gender – While those mentioned above can be played by both gender, there are other baby sitting games for girls and boys that only either of them could play. Be careful when choosing gender specific games especially if the parents are sensitive about it. For example, if the young boy’s dad does not approve of his son playing dolls then do not force the issue.

• Age – Some kids are not yet old and mature enough to understand certain kinds of games so be sure to pick games that are age-appropriate.

• Safety – Whatever game you play, never put the kid’s safety into jeopardy. Always keep their safety in mind whenever playing with them.

• Interest – They will only be able to enjoy a game if they are interested in it. Get ideas from them about what they want to play.

• Educational – Video games are a big no-no. Instead, go for games that incite creativity, enhance physical and mental skills, encourage interaction, and improve logic and skills.

Baby sitting games are enjoyable not only for the child but also for the baby sitter. Just make sure that you consider all the factors mentioned in this article when looking for a game to play with a child to ensure that it will not only be fun but also safe and educational.