. I'm playful
Parents want a babysitter with a good imagination who can create games, activities and crafts. A playful personality shows parents that you genuinely care about fostering a healthy, fun and active environment for their kids.
. I'm active
Kids are high energy and are constantly on the go. my energy needs to match that energy and must come prepared for however the day or night unfolds.
. I'm responsible
A reliable babysitter is every parent’s dream. Parents want a sitter whom they can depend on, someone they can trust and someone who is capable of responsibly caring for their children.
. I have experience
Babysitting is not as easy as people think. It takes preparation, confidence and skill. Having babysitting experience allows you to gain the skills you need. Parents want sitters who know how to think on their feet when unplanned circumstances arise, stay coolheaded when a child is upset or injured and negotiate arguments over toys and games.
. I'm flexible
Parents appreciate a sitter who can roll with the punches. This may mean being open about scheduling, fair about pay rates or easygoing about nights that run later than expected. You don’t want parents to take advantage of your time, but you should understand that plans change.
. I'm trustworthy
Being trustworthy is perhaps one of the most important traits that a babysitter can have. Parents expect a babysitter to follow the rules of the household, keep the children safe and pay attention to their kids. Parents don’t want a babysitter texting friends or inviting their boyfriend over to the house. Babysitting is not a time to socialize.
. I'm punctual
A babysitter should be on time. Period. But be sure to let the family know if you are running late or give the family a week’s notice if you are unable to work on a regularly scheduled night.
. You’re patient
Patience is a very important trait for babysitters to have. Remind them to do their chores; then give them time and space to get it done. Be patient and continue to offer gentle reminders as necessary.
. You’re authoritative
Babysitting isn’t all fun and games. If the parents have left specific instructions (no TV, brush teeth before bed, eat five bites of vegetables before being excused from the table), it is a babysitter’s job to enforce these rules. You should be gentle and kind, but you also need to show them who is in charge. It’s important that you talk discipline with the family and learn how to handle bad behavior the way the parents would want.
. I have unique or fun interests
Kids and parents alike will gravitate to a sitter who can bring a cool new skill set or passion into their home. A babysitter who bakes or plays guitar, speaks Spanish or was the captain of the basketball team can be a real selling point for families. Always list your interests and skills on your babysitting resume and online profile.
13. You’re skilled
A babysitter should have certain training and safety qualifications, such as a first aid and CPR certification. In fact, nowadays, most families expect babysitters to have these certifications. If an emergency situation arises while you’re on the job, parents want to feel confident you will be ready to help.