The Babysitter's Handbook

This is a well written babysitters guide. Just keep in mind that many states require that babysitters be 13 years old and have a babysitting class. If you aren't sure about your state's requirements (or didn't realize they existed), call your local department of Family and Children's Services and ask them the home-alone and babysitting age requirements.

Before you entrust your precious children to a babysitter, have them read this book. It is an indispensable and practical guide for babysitters. The highlight of this book is the "Record & Logbook" in the back that you can write on with a water soluble ink pen. That will allow you to make changes as needed. It contains an area for: Household Objects - Where to find the basics. Around the House - How to turn off gas, water, electricity, etc. Entertainment - Games, songs, toys, stories, TV, videos. Feeding & Mealtimes - allergies Comforting a Child if they are hurt, upset, fighting, misbehaving. Bedtime Routines - Favorite items, where spare sheets and pajamas are. Medical Notes - In case of Emergency. Emergencies - Contact Numbers. Frankly, I think writing this stuff down is fine, but walking a babysitter through the house and showing them where everything is seems more practical and maybe this can just be a section to help remind the babysitter of the important things they need to remember. The contents include: Guide to Babysitting: A section for babysitters and parents. This section is helpful as it addresses the concerns of both the parents and a new babysitter. Baby & Child Care: The basics of how to pick up a baby, carry a baby, dress children, help a toddler, deal with potty training, washing, feeding, giving a bottle, ending arguments, bedtime, games kids like. Home Safety & First Aid: Keeping the home safe, preventing injuries, bath time, fire, a sick child, childhood illness, aches and pains, First Aid, First Aid Kit, nosebleeds, cuts and abrasions, removing splinters, stings, burns, head injury, bleeding, shock, fractures, sprains, seizures, breathing and choking. Record Book - discussed above I think this book is one every parent should read especially for the First Aid section. The clear step-by-step photographs demonstrate all the key baby care and first aid techniques. Quite Helpful. ~The Rebecca Review

This book is really good. It teaches you how to change diapers and things like that. It gives you step-by-step instructions for everything. There is even a first-aid section.