Walking the Line Between Friend and Peer: Part II

Walking the fine line of "in charge" and friend is something that many people never figure out how to do. But when you are babysitting for older children, it is important to do so. Especially if you nanny for an older child, or spend a lot of time with them. How do you know what to do to make the child like you and feel comfortable around you, without the child forgetting that you are in charge. You are not their equal. Once you overstep that boundary, into friendship, you become their peer, and they are likely to no longer take orders from you, and respect your authority. Here are some things to do and not do to keep on top of the line.

What you should do:

Listen. If the child wants to talk about her day let her. Don't interrupt, don't look bored. Ask a question or two, and if it is asked for, offer advice. Let her vent or brag. This will help build your relationship with the child, the key to being a friend and babysitter.

Be interested in the child. Let them know you enjoy spending time with him or her. Play Games. Play what she wants to play, have fun, and don't be afraid to laugh and get into what you are doing. If you are having fun and laughing, then the child will likely be happy too. Just because you are having fun together doesn't mean that you are not the boss. If you do it right, the child will understand that you will play and do fun things, but that they still need to listen to you.

Talk. Just talk to them about anything, sports, movies, school, animals, whatever they are interested in. Share funny stories. Really get to know the child, and let them get to know you. Compare favorite colors, foods, hairstyles, and even the length of socks you like to wear if it comes up. (When talking to children, you never know what the topic will come to.) The more you know about them the better the babysitter you can be. And the more they know about you, the more comfortable they will feel around you. Just use your judgement when talking to the children. Graphic details of last nights make-out session with your boyfriend is not appropriate.

Don't be afraid to be friends with the children you babysit for. In the long run, that friendship will make your job easier. They are less likely to argue with you over bedtimes and such when you are friends. Just don't let them think that you are a peer. There is a difference, and you need to keep that distance between the two. If you can do this, you will have a happy client.

Go To Page: 1 2

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic