Babysitter Reveals The Dark Secrets Of The Trade
By Jack Trelawny
9 months ago
1. Picky Eaters
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Dealing with picky eaters can be one of the most frustrating parts of babysitting. It's hard enough to make sure kids are safe and entertained, but adding mealtime battles to the mix takes the challenge to another level. Sometimes, in the interest of harmony and getting through the meal without a meltdown, babysitters resort to letting the child eat whatever they want, even if it's junk food. This is a shortcut that can lead to bad dietary habits for the child in the long run, and it also puts the babysitter in a precarious position if parents have strict food rules. However, the alternative — a drawn-out battle of wills — can also be draining and counterproductive, taking away time and energy from other activities or responsibilities.2. Screen Time
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While the general recommendation is to limit screen time for children, the reality often differs when it comes to babysitting. Whether it's iPads, TV shows, or video games, these electronic devices can act like digital pacifiers, keeping kids occupied and making the job easier for the babysitter. Of course, relying on such methods isn't optimal for child development and can lead to unhealthy habits for the kids. However, when you've been watching children for several hours and need a break, or when other methods of engagement have failed, the allure of screen time as a simple solution can be very tempting.3. Pet Woes
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Parents often overlook the fact that their beloved pet is an added responsibility for the babysitter. Not everyone is a pet lover, and for those who aren't, taking care of animals becomes an unwelcome duty. From feeding and maybe walking the pet to cleaning up after them, these tasks add to the already complex job of babysitting. Plus, pets can be unpredictable. They may misbehave, make messes, or even act aggressively, adding stress and potential hazards to the situation. This extra layer of responsibility can turn a straightforward babysitting job into something far more complicated and taxing.4. . Snooping
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While it's absolutely unprofessional and unethical, some babysitters succumb to the temptation to snoop around the house. The motivations can vary from pure curiosity to boredom, and sometimes, it might even be to locate essential items that weren't properly pointed out by the parents. Regardless of the reason, snooping is a breach of trust. It's something most babysitters would never admit to, but it's a dirty secret that exists in the shadows of the babysitting world. Even if nothing harmful comes of it, it erodes the foundation of trust that is crucial for a good relationship between parents and babysitters.5. White Lies
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Maintaining a peaceful environment is one of the main goals of babysitting, and sometimes that means withholding the truth from parents. A babysitter might not inform parents about a minor misbehavior or incident involving their child to avoid conflict or uncomfortable conversations. This might keep things pleasant in the short term, but it's a risky tactic. Should such behaviors escalate or result in a problem later on, the omission could come back to haunt the babysitter. It's a gray area that many babysitters navigate carefully, weighing the need for open communication against the potential fallout from being entirely upfront.6. Extra Guests
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Having friends over while babysitting is a big no-no, but some babysitters break this rule to relieve boredom or make the experience more enjoyable for themselves. It's a clear violation of professional boundaries and puts the babysitter's focus at risk, potentially compromising the children's safety. For parents, it's a betrayal of trust that can have severe repercussions, including termination of the babysitter's services. Despite the risks, it's a scenario that has been known to happen and stands as a dark mark on the professionalism of those who engage in it.7. Underpaid
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The job description for babysitting often extends well beyond merely watching the children. From preparing meals and helping with homework to doing light housework, the range of tasks can be surprisingly broad. Yet, the pay often doesn't reflect these varied responsibilities, especially when dealing with multiple children or kids requiring special attention. Babysitters often feel underpaid but may not speak up, either out of politeness or fear of losing the job. It's a lingering issue that contributes to the feeling that babysitting isn't a 'real job,' even though it demands a high level of skill and responsibility.8. Mental Health
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Most people think of babysitting as a physically demanding job, but the emotional and mental toll it can take is often under-discussed. Managing children's needs, handling emergencies, and navigating family dynamics can be emotionally draining. Add to that the need to be constantly alert, and it becomes a high-stress occupation. Despite this, mental health is rarely discussed in the context of babysitting. Many babysitters internalize their stress, feeling the need to project an image of capability and cheerfulness, which can lead to burnout in the long run.9. Parents' Return Time
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One of the most stressful aspects of babysitting is when parents don't return home at the agreed-upon time. Not only does this disrupt the babysitter's personal schedule, but it also leads to increased worry and stress. It might require last-minute changes to bedtime routines or additional activities to keep the children entertained beyond the expected time. It's also a question of respect: Being late without notice shows a lack of consideration for the babysitter's time, and can create a tension in the professional relationship between parents and babysitter.10. Double Duty
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Many babysitters find themselves doing more than what was initially agreed upon, especially when it comes to household chores. While most are happy to help with tasks directly related to the children, such as cleaning up after meals or tidying play areas, additional chores like doing the family's laundry or washing dishes can feel like an imposition. These extra duties can make the job more labor-intensive than anticipated, and if they're not compensated accordingly, it adds to the feeling of being underpaid and undervalued.11. Messy Houses
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The state of a home often provides the first impression when a babysitter walks through the door, and yes, we do judge the cleanliness of your living spaces. A messy house can make the job more difficult by adding an extra layer of chaos. It also might reflect poorly on the parents, leaving the babysitter to wonder if the lack of organization extends to other aspects of family life. If toys are scattered everywhere or there's food residue on the counters, it becomes a hygiene issue too, affecting the well-being of the kids and the babysitter. In extreme cases, a messy house can even be hazardous, with tripping hazards or sharp objects within a child's reach.12. Free Food
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The prospect of free food, particularly a well-stocked snack cabinet, can sometimes be one of the more appealing aspects of a babysitting gig. The freedom to raid the fridge or pantry can feel like a small but satisfying perk, offering a bit of compensation for what can sometimes feel like an underpaid job. However, this can also be a gray area. While some families explicitly offer food as a benefit, others may not appreciate their groceries disappearing. Regardless, it's one of those small pleasures that can make the challenging aspects of the job a little more tolerable.13. Favorite Families
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Every babysitter has favorite families and children that they genuinely enjoy spending time with. These favorites are often the result of mutual respect, clear communication, and kids who are relatively well-behaved. When given the choice, a babysitter will almost always prioritize these families over others. This isn't necessarily a bad thing; it's human nature to prefer environments where you feel valued and comfortable. Still, it's a dynamic that parents should be aware of, as having a good relationship with your babysitter can result in better care and more availability.14. No Shows
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Babysitters often have a list of go-to games and activities to entertain kids, but there are also "secret games"—those reserved for situations where the children are exceptionally difficult to manage. These are often activities that are particularly engaging or have a calming effect, used as a last resort to either entertain or pacify children who are acting out. The decision to use these secret games is a tactical one, designed to maximize peace and stability when all else fails.15. Secret Games
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Babysitters often have a list of go-to games and activities to entertain kids, but there are also "secret games"—those reserved for situations where the children are exceptionally difficult to manage. These are often activities that are particularly engaging or have a calming effect, used as a last resort to either entertain or pacify children who are acting out. The decision to use these secret games is a tactical one, designed to maximize peace and stability when all else fails.16. Lack of Boundaries
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Sometimes families can be a little too personal or intrusive, asking questions or requesting tasks that overstep professional boundaries. Whether it's inquiring about the babysitter's personal life or asking them to do chores that weren't agreed upon, these oversteps can make the job uncomfortable. Maintaining a professional boundary is essential for a healthy working relationship, and when those lines are blurred, it puts the babysitter in an awkward position.17. Exhaustion
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Babysitting can be more physically tiring than parents often realize. Whether it's running after toddlers, lifting children, or even just maintaining a constant level of alertness for several hours, the job can be exhausting. Parents who think babysitting is just watching TV while the kids sleep are often ignorant of the physical toll the job can take. This underestimation often contributes to the sentiment that babysitters are underpaid for their work.18. Injury Risk
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No babysitter wants to make that dreaded phone call to parents saying their child is injured. Even with the most diligent supervision, accidents can happen. The fear of a child getting hurt while under their care is always in the back of a babysitter's mind. This isn't just about avoiding blame or liability; it's a genuine concern for the well-being of the child. One moment of inattention can result in scrapes, bruises, or worse, adding another layer of stress to an already demanding job.19. Backup Plans
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Kids are unpredictable, and even the best-laid plans can go awry. Babysitters often have backup strategies for various scenarios—like when a child refuses to sleep, eat, or behave. These might include special games, "bribery" snacks, or a favorite movie as a last resort. Backup plans are the babysitter's safety net, providing alternative ways to handle challenging situations and ensuring that they are always prepared for the unexpected.20. Emergency Contacts
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Nothing is more stressful than facing an emergency situation and not having the necessary information readily available. Babysitters greatly appreciate when parents leave comprehensive lists of emergency contacts and important medical information for their children. In urgent scenarios, every second counts, and fumbling to find this critical information can add unnecessary tension and delay. A well-prepared list is not just a courtesy; it's a vital tool that can make a significant difference in an emergency situation.21. Parental Arguments
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Being present when parents are arguing or experiencing tension is incredibly awkward and uncomfortable for a babysitter. It places us in a delicate position, making it hard to navigate the emotional atmosphere of the home. The children may also pick up on this tension, which could affect their behavior and create additional challenges for us. This atmosphere can distract from the primary job of ensuring the kids are safe and happy. It's not just about feeling awkward; it also becomes a matter of concern about how to manage the emotional toll that parental arguments can have on the children we're responsible for.22. Late Payment
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Getting paid on time is crucial, especially when babysitting is a primary source of income. Waiting for payment can be both uncomfortable and financially stressful. Reminding parents about payment can make the relationship feel less cordial and more transactional, which isn't ideal when you're taking care of their children. Consistent late payment can strain the relationship and lead to hesitancy in accepting future babysitting gigs from that family. While most parents mean well, late payments can inadvertently send the message that the babysitter's time and services aren't valued.23. Unrealistic Expectations
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Some parents have unrealistically high expectations for what a babysitter can accomplish within a limited timeframe. Whether it's expecting us to teach their child a new skill, like reading or swimming, or assuming we can handle extensive household chores while also caring for their kids, these unrealistic expectations can create stress and disappointment. Often, these expectations aren't even communicated clearly upfront, making it even harder to meet them. Not meeting these unrealistic expectations can also impact future job opportunities with that family.24. Unforeseen Hazards
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Not being briefed on potential hazards like allergies, specific fears, or household dangers can add an unnecessary layer of stress and risk to the job. Babysitters worry about these things because they're invested in the well-being of the children they're caring for. Simple information like where the first aid kit is, any food allergies, or even dangerous areas around the house can go a long way in making the babysitter feel better prepared for emergencies.25. Privacy
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It's inevitable to sometimes overhear conversations or become privy to information that we'd rather not know. This can put us in an uncomfortable ethical position and blur professional boundaries. Although it's never our intention to intrude on family matters, these situations can arise accidentally and make the job emotionally complicated. This underscores the importance of maintaining a professional demeanor and respecting family privacy at all times.26. Lack of Respect
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Despite the emotional and physical labor involved in babysitting, some parents and children treat us as if we're just there to "watch" the kids and don't need to be treated as professionals. This lack of respect can manifest in many ways, including late payments, last-minute cancellations, or not being trusted with important information. Respect is crucial in any working relationship, and without it, it's challenging to provide the level of care we strive for.27. Multitasking
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Babysitting isn't just about keeping an eye on the kids; it often involves juggling multiple tasks at once. We may be balancing homework, our own meals, and caring for multiple children with different needs. These responsibilities require a level of multitasking and mental agility that can be incredibly draining. It's not just about "sitting" — it's about managing a mini-ecosystem that changes from moment to moment.28. Bad Recommendations
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Sometimes we accept jobs based on the recommendations of other babysitters, only to find that the family isn't as great as they were made out to be. This could mean many things: maybe the kids are unruly, the parents are disorganized, or the house is a mess. In these instances, not only is the job harder, but it can also feel like a betrayal from the person who recommended the gig.29. Feeling Replaceable
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No one likes to feel like they're just a cog in a machine, easily replaced by the next available person. Unfortunately, some babysitters do feel this way, especially if the parents are constantly changing caregivers or don't express appreciation for the work done. This can undermine self-confidence and professional value, affecting performance and job satisfaction.30. Parents' Scrutiny
