Summer Babysitting Jobs for Teens

Babysitting is a time-honored way for teens to earn money in the summer. Even with the internet and innovative new business ideas, babysitting is still a viable and needed summer job for teens. Here are some things to consider as you think about babysitting this summer.

1. Training
Yes, there’s training available for babysitters. Your local Red Cross will probably have a course, or your local hospital or YMCA/YWCA. There are some advantages to training – you can charge more for your services, and such training looks good on your resume. But there is a downside, too – it’s a time commitment that may not be in proportion to your babysitting interests. Also, charging more sounds good but it could also mean you garner fewer clients.

2. Getting Started
If you don’t go for formal training, you can build your experience on your own. One way to start is as a Mother’s Helper. Typically, a Mother’s Helper charges less than a babysitter. You go into the home while the mother is there, so there is less responsibility involved. The mom can then get things done such as housework, working on a business project, and so forth. The Mother’s Helper may also help the mom with some of these tasks. Being a Mother’s Helper is generally a more low-key job that works well as an introduction to babysitting. It’s also increasingly popular – as more and more moms work from home, in-home help is more in demand than ever.

You might also get started by teaming up with an experienced babysitter. You can provide help while learning and earning a portion of the wages.

3. Getting Clients
It’s important to remember that parents treasure and value their children. Any advertising you do should reflect your responsible attitude and love for kids.

One of the best ways to get clients is by word of mouth. Your parents will know you’re interested in babysitting, and your parents will be in the “parent community.” Many times parents get asked if their teenager babysits. Parents prefer babysitters they know or whose parents they know, so it gives you a leg up if you get clients through your parents.

Another thing you can do is set up a blog or website and advertise your site. You can write about your experiences, opinions, goals, and so forth and post your prices and experience. Blogs and websites can act like an online resume.

4. What to Charge?
Babysitting can vary a lot in terms of pay. A young mother’s helper can expect up to $5 an hour but not much more. A typical amount is $7 per hour, but you can vary it according to the number of kids. For instance, you could charge $7 per hour for a one-child family, and $4 per child per hour if there is more than one child (so a 2-child family would be $8 an hour, a 3-child family would be $12 per hour, etc.). You could have a flat fee for large families that you work out with each individual client.

Babysitting is still a great summer job for teens to earn money and gain experience over the summer. For more about the benefits of summer jobs for teens, go here.

That’s it for now. Until next time Divas, wear your heels well and Be Blessed!

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