Fun Ideas for Babysitting Kids

Babysitting kids can be tough. Especially when the kids don't like listening to directions. Bringing fun crafts and activities to your job can make it a little easier. Here are some ideas...

1. Write a story with them!

Write a story with the kids! It's good to have them use their creativity and imagination. Before beginning to write, ask them the following questions:

• Who are the characters?
• What are they like?
• What do they look like?
• How are you similar to the characters you created?
• Where does the story take place?
• When does it take place?
• How does the story start?
• Is there a problem in the story? How does it get resolved?
• How does the story end?
• How does the ending connect to the beginning? 

You can hand-write or type the story, or you can have the kids write it. Have them do most of the thinking. If there is more than one child, you can have them take turns illustrating the scenes. After, they're done, you can staple the pages together and give the story to their parents as a gift. They'll love it! They'll also be happy that you encouraged the kids to do something productive and healthy! 

    2. Play a board game with the kids! 


Play a board game with the kids! Board games help kids with their problem-solving skills! If their are multiple kids playing, and they get into a conflict, try not to solve the conflict for them. See if they can solve it themselves, and if it starts to escalate, gently help them solve it. Try to let the kids you're babysitting solve their own problems as often as possible.

XOXO,
Shannon