How to Get a Job in Babysitting: A Beginner’s Guide to Starting Your Childcare Career
- Jobs
- By Kirsten H. on
Babysitting is one of the most popular and accessible jobs for teens and adults alike. Whether you're looking to earn extra cash, build job experience, or explore a future career in childcare or education, babysitting is a flexible, rewarding, and in-demand option. Here's how to start your babysitting journey—and actually get hired.
Why Babysitting Is a Great Job
Babysitting offers more than just a paycheck. It teaches responsibility, communication, time management, and trust. Plus, it’s a job you can often schedule around school or other responsibilities.
Key benefits:
- Flexible hours
- Good pay, especially for weekend or evening shifts
- Valuable experience for future careers
- Opportunities for long-term clients or referrals
Step 1: Learn the Basics of Childcare
You don’t need a degree, but you do need to understand basic childcare skills. Learn how to:
- Feed and change infants or toddlers
- Keep children safe from hazards
- Handle tantrums or disagreements
- Engage kids with games, books, or crafts
- React in case of emergencies
Many of these can be learned through free videos, babysitting guides, or by helping family members with younger children.
Step 2: Get Certified (Recommended)
Parents love hiring sitters who are trained in safety and first aid.
Consider getting certified in:
- CPR and First Aid (Red Cross or local hospitals often offer courses)
- Babysitting Basics (Red Cross Babysitting & Child Care Certification is popular)
These certifications only take a few hours and make you more competitive.
Step 3: Build Experience and References
Start small:
- Offer to babysit for family, neighbors, or family friends
- Volunteer at local events or daycares
- Ask parents for written or verbal references
These experiences help build your confidence and show potential clients you're capable.
Step 4: Create a Babysitting Profile
Make a simple babysitting resume or profile that includes:
- Your name, age, and contact info
- Availability (days and times)
- Experience and certifications
- Special skills (like tutoring, cooking, or speaking a second language)
Optional: Create a flyer or digital ad you can share in local groups or post on community boards.
Step 5: Join Babysitting Platforms or Apps
Many parents use online services to find babysitters. Sign up for trusted sites like:
- Care.com
- Sittercity
- Bambino
- UrbanSitter
- Nextdoor (neighborhood app)
Always follow safety guidelines and let your parents or someone you trust know where you're going.
Step 6: Prepare for Interviews and First Jobs
When meeting a family for the first time:
- Dress appropriately
- Be polite and friendly
- Ask about rules, routines, allergies, and emergency contacts
- Show confidence but also be willing to listen and learn
Once hired, arrive on time, stay off your phone, and give the children your full attention.
Final Thoughts: Turn Babysitting Into a Steady Job
Babysitting is a great way to earn money, build life skills, and make a difference in families’ lives. With the right approach, you can turn a one-time gig into a regular schedule—or even start your own small childcare business.
Take the first step by offering to babysit for someone you know—and watch your opportunities grow from there.