MOTHERS HELPER

[KIA9]

Hi

I am a student at CCHS in Colchester. I am 13 years old and am interested in helping looking after children whilst their mothers are busy making tea, etc. I would play, read, colour sing and generally entertain young children aged 6 months to school age whilst their mothers are still in the house. I am wondering whether anyone considers this a good idea. I have had experience of looking after and playing with my young cousin and young children my Mum's friends have. How much would you pay for this and would you even consider this? Would I need to get my own Mum to check anyone who phones and how can I look responsible if I do this ?

Thank you in advance.

Because the mother would be in the house, I'm sure that perhaps many mothers would like you to help them. As you're not in sole charge of the child, I guess I would be happy to have a 13yr old be a mother's help, but obviously this doesn't only mean to look after the children but also to help around the hosue a bit - putting on laundry, making a snack for child etc.
The Children's Law centre suggest that nobody under 16 babysits but it's only a suggestion.
As you're in Colchester, why don't you go the Army HIVE Information centre and ask to put up a poster - I'm sure there would be lots of army wives who would love your help; especially with many DHs away on tour.