There are many reasons why mom may be curious about when her child can start babysitting. She may want an older sibling to start watching their younger siblings, or her child may be asking for some pocket change to do some shopping of their own. Babysitting is the first job for a lot of young people out there, and it is the first time they have experience with this kind of responsibility.
However, mom may be curious about when her child can start babysitting. Is there a legal age? Or is it just a moral dilemma? The truth is there is no clear-cut answer to when a child can start babysitting, because it is likely going to come down to a different answer for each family, but there are things to watch out for when trying to make that decision.
Legal Age When A Teen Can Babysit
Trying to determine a legal age for babysitting is tricky, and that is because there really isn’t one. According to Kidsit, there are no laws regarding babysitter age in most states, with the exception of Maryland. In Maryland, babysitters have to be at least 13 years old. The general age-range where children start babysitting is between the ages of 11 and 15.
It is also important to know that just because a child has reached the age where they can start babysitting, doesn’t mean that they should, according to Today’s Parent. The child must be mature enough to take on the tasks. Mom should always check with their local government agency to make sure their child is old enough legally to babysit.
Maturity Matters When Determining If A Teen Is Old Enough
Reaching an age of maturity is likely to be different for each family, and there is a way to try and figure out if your child is ready to take on that task. Think about what you would expect if you hired a sitter that you did not know. Think of what you would expect of them, and what tasks they would be asked to complete. If you don’t think your child is able to take on this role, then they are not ready.
Help Them Get Ready
If you feel like your child is close to being ready, there are things that you can do to give them a helping hand. It is always a good idea to have your child take a babysitting and a home-alone course. These kinds of courses help to cover what to do when it comes to taking care of younger siblings, first-aid and even tips to help them get their sibling to bed.
It is also good to make sure that you go over scenarios with your child before. Have them shadow you when you put the younger sibling to bed or do other tasks for them. Give them scenarios and questions and ask them what they would do. Ask them what they would do if the fire alarm foes off, or if their sibling throws up.
Make sure you go over the house rules and all emergency contacts. What may give mom peace of mind is to task them with short babysitting opportunities and lead up to longer ones. Start with just a trip to the grocery store, or to get a coffee and then you can work your way up to a dinner date.
Sources: Kidsit, Todays Parent