Babysitting for a family I don't know - how to make a good impression

[toolittletimeagain]

I am wondering if anyone can give me some advice.

I am a mature student and have been looking into ways of earning a bit of extra money. As I am DBS checked, I posted on a local fb group that I am available for babysitting. A family has asked me to babysit for their two young girls tomorrow night and all of a sudden I have lost my confidence! I have explained my background to the parents and asked about the bedtime routine and any medical conditions I should be aware of etc as well as what the children are interested in. I have babysat in the past but only for families I know so this is different for me.

I am keen to build a good rapport with the children and I was thinking of bringing some nice colouring books for each of them with me as a little gift/something to do before they go to bed/so they feel comfortable with me. Is this weird or would you appreciate a babysitter doing this for your kids?

Personally I'd find that a bit weird, as a parent. just be on time, listen to what the parents say about routine, bed time etc, ask if they want you to text them updates at all, and follow the routine/instructions!

@Peonies12 thank you!

Aww I think that’s lovely

You don't have to bring anything.

Just smile and do your best - all will be fine!

I wouldn’t take anything. It’s unnecessary, might seem a bit presumptuous and if they use you again they might think new colouring pens and books are provided included in your fee every time. As a nervous person who appears outwardly confident I am a big fan of “fake it til you make it”. Go in with a big smile and a business like attitude. Be fun but firm with the kids.

I think that’s a lovely idea. I’d be very happy to see my babysitter do something so thoughtful for my children.

No thats weird!
Just turn up and follow instructions

Have you got first aid?

Just be calm, polite, professional and build a rapport with the children when you meet them. I think I'd see a new babysitter bringing gifts for the children as a sign she didn't feel confident, and was trying to placate them ahead of bedtime etc.

Don't bring gifts. You're being hired to provide a service, just be professional, which it really does sound like you are.

And you're already asking for all the history and routine info, so just follow that and any other little pre-bed routines/likes they may have.

You should be fine. I was a babysitter for a family when I was 15. I just turned up, put the kids to bed at the time they told me and then chilled out watching tv. They used to leave a stocked fridge and tell me to help myself. No mobile phones or internet back then so was stuck with the tv channels on the box and them arriving home when they arrived. No updates either way. It was the summer and the kids played out til bedtime.

Thanks everyone, I didn't bring anything in the end and it all went well. They want me to babysit again so I'm feeling much more confident. Really appreciate all your advice.

You’ll be great I’m sure.

Remember to ask if the children have any allergies or any behaviours to be aware of etc.