Babysitting Games

Got a new babysitting job and want to be prepared to keep the kids happy and entertained? Not to worry. Here are some tips from the basics to some more advanced ideas. Enjoy!

Create a Babysitting Idea Kit or Bag

One way to make sure that you are always prepared is to make your own fun babysitting idea kit or bag. This is a bag that you take with you on all your jobs. There may be interchangeable items depending on the ages of the children you will be watching, but many of the items can have multiple uses for all ages.

Just remember to review the contents of your bag as you prepare for each job. The safety of the children is the most important part of the job and the supplies in your kit should reflect what is appropriate for their age.

The Basics

• Age appropriate toys. Consider including simple toys that can be adapted for a variety of ages. These include balls (which can be rolled with a toddler or kicked outside with a 6-year old), puppets, play cars and building blocks or Legos.
• Songs. Kids love to sing...sometimes the same songs over and over. These don't need to be new songs. In fact, the kid standards might be the best because you won't have to teach the words. London Bridge, Ring around the Rosie and the Wheels on the Bus are all great starters.
• Books. Consider pop-up books or other books that are interactive such as those with textures. These are more unusual so that kids will be more interested in them. If you are babysitting at night and will be putting the children to bed, consider special bedtime books as well.
• The Library. The library can be a place of learning and exploration for young and old. Story time is often a great event. 
• Craft items. These include popsicle sticks, crayons, washable markers, colored paper and stickers (be sure to include ones for both boys and girls). Crafts for kids are usually popular with both the kids and the parents.

A bit more advanced

• Homemade playing dough. It doesn't have to be homemade, but that option is cheaper. Plus it gives you options on coloring that you may not have with purchased Play-Doh. If the kids are old enough, they can even help you make it. Add some cookie cutters and you'll be set!

• Origami and Calligraphy. Do you know origami or calligraphy? These are unique skills that can entertain kids and leave them a special keepsake.
• Do you like to dance? Anything that gets kids moving is usually entertaining. Consider including a fun dance CD that can be used as entertainment or to help motivate everyone in cleaning up. Many recent kids' movies have soundtracks that are great for this.
• Are you a good storyteller? As much as kids like books, they also like fun stories - especially if they can be part of the action. Make up stories and take turns adding parts.

• Classic children games, such as "Simon Says," "Hide and Seek," or "Marco Polo" are also fun games that can keep kids occupied and enjoying themselves. If you plan to play an active game like these, keep in mind that playing outside is often better in order to avoid injury or broken items.
• Video or computer games can also be an option, although parents tend to limit the time their children are allowed to spend playing them.
• Have a Treasure Hunt
• Blow Giant Bubbles
• Go Bug Exploring
  
• Acting Out A Musical
  
• Acting Out A Movie Or Cartoon
• Build A Castle Out Of Pillows, Cardboard Boxes, And Blankets