b'hours.If youre nervous about staying home alone, you may notments for transportation to and from the job.be ready to be alone in someone elses home and responsible forIf you answered yes to these questions, babysitting can be a re-other children. Some tweens may be okay during the day, but be- warding experience. The job of babysitting is serious, and part of come apprehensive after dark.In this case, begin with daytimethis responsibility is to protect the children and yourself.Make babysitting only. sure to practice these safety tips:How do you relate to younger children?Do you treat children Obtain the location and phone number where the parents can with patience and compassion?Can you take command of situa-be reached in case of emergency.tions that require guidance or supervision?Do younger children respond to you positively? Be sure doors and windows are locked and ask which lights Can you handle unexpected or emergency situations?Are you should be left on if youre to stay late at night.able to stay calm and proceed wisely in a crisis?Preparing a plan Locate fire escapes, fire extinguisher, or second exit.of action and learning basic emergency procedures can be helpful Never tell telephone callers that you are alone with the in handling unexpected situations that may arise. children.Are you skilled in the basics of childcare?Do you know how Never open doors to strangers.to hold, feed, and change diapers?Can you soothe a crying childSince you are a guest in your employers home remember these who woke up with a bad dream, misses her parents, or has fallentips:during play?If you feel apprehensive with very young children, maybe watching older children would be wise until you gain Dont be distracted by social media or texting on your phone.more experience.Dont allow friends to visit.Can you handle the business of babysitting?Babysitting is a Stay out of closets, desk drawers, and personal papers.job that requires interaction with parents as well as children.Be Enjoy only those snacks that youve been offered.businesslike and explain the days and hours you are available.Be confident in discussing what you charge per hour.Try to arrangeEditors Note: Tania Cowling is a former teacher and now grandmother a visit prior to babysitting to meet the children.Make arrange- who enjoys writing and blogging about mothering.DOG DAYCAREPET BOARDINGDOG TRAININGDOG GROOMINGDAY CAMP FOR YOUR PARTY ANIMAL! We have news for you: your dog is a party animal, and Dog Daycare at Mans Best Friend is the perfect place for them to let loose.No matter your dogs size, age, or breed, they will deeply benefit from some raucous playtime with their fellow pups.2641 Westgrove Dr | Carrollton | 972-449-1476carrollton@mansbestfriend.comNEW CLIENT SPECIAL: Get Your First Day of Hours:MF 7AM - 7PM | Sat 8AM - 5PM | Sun 8AM - 5PM Dog Daycare FREE!CALL 972-449-1476GoodLifeFamilyMag.comSEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 201941'