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Choosing a Babysitter
When leaving their child in the care of another, parents need to feel comfortable that the caregiver is responsible, reliable, and trained to respond to an emergency. By hiring a babysitter who has taken the American Red Cross Babysitter's Training course, parents can be confident that their child is in good hands.
The Red Cross Babysitter's Training course is designed for youth 11 to 15 years old, and combines video, activities, hands-on skills training and discussion for a complete learning experience. Participants learn to:
- Perform first aid and get professional medical help fast
- Identify common safety hazards and prevent injuries
- Make good, responsible decision
- Supervise infants through school-age children
- Choose safe and age-appropriate toys and games
- Perform basic care routines like diapering, feeding and dressing
Before hiring someone to care for your child, you should spend some time speaking with them to learn about their experience, to answer any questions they have, and to explain your expectations or any house rules. You'll also want to introduce your child to the babysitter to make sure your child feels comfortable before leaving them alone together.
The Red Cross also offers products that babysitters can carry with them to be prepared in the event of an emergency. The Babysitter's Training First Aid and Safety Kit features an emergency notepad, bandages, vinyl gloves, a flashlight, pen and wallet card, all packaged in a durable sports bag. This kit, along with several other first aid and disaster preparedness kits, may be purchased online at www.shopstaywell.com.
The American Red Cross has been the leader in health and safety training for more than 90 years. Choosing a babysitter trained by the Red Cross is the best way to help your child reach their future safely.
The Babysitter's Training course has been reviewed and supported by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Girl Scouts of the U.S.A., Boy Scouts of the U.S.A, Boys and Girls Clubs, JCC Association and 4-H.
For more information about Babysitter's Training, or other health and safety courses offered by the American Red Cross, visit www.redcross.org, contact your local chapter or call 1-800-667-2968.
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