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Caring for Kids: School-Age Edition

Babysitting school-age children (ages 6 to 10 years old) is a great way to get babysitting experience. School-age children can do things alone and usually follow the rules. They communicate easily and enjoy activities that you likely still love.

To prepare for babysitting school-age children, take a babysitting safety course like Safe Sitter®. When someone offers you a babysitting job for a school-age child, understand the care required to decide if you should accept the job.

Here are eight things you must know about school-age children to determine if you are ready for the responsibility of babysitting a school-age child.

1. School-age children know how to stay safe but may take risks.

School-age children often act independently and may try activities that push their limits. Common dangers include falling off bikes or getting injured during sports or outside games.

2. School-age children must wear bike helmets.

School-age children enjoy riding bikes and must wear a helmet. Get permission from the employer before allowing a child you are babysitting to ride a bike. Also, ask if there is a bike and helmet for you to use so that you can accompany the child.

3. School-age children talk well, read, and use devices.

School-age children can have a conversation with you and are often eager to talk to you about their interests. Before you start the job, ask the employer about house rules for screen time. Encourage school-age children  to engage in activities with you instead of using devices.

4. School-age children may argue or fight with siblings.

If an argument or fight begins, settle it as fairly as possible. For physical fighting, separate the children. If you cannot stop the fight, call a back-up adult for help and call 9-1-1 if there is a risk of serious harm.

5. School-age children are able to go to the bathroom alone.

Younger school-age children may need reminders to use the bathroom, especially at bedtime. All school-age children need reminders to wash their hands after using the bathroom.

6. School-age children know the bedtime rules and routine.

Even though they know the rules and routine, school-age children may try to push bedtime rules. Make sure you give school-age children a 30-minute warning before bedtime.

7. School-age children may push snacking rules.

Before the job starts, make sure you ask the employer if any food in the refrigerator or pantry is off-limits, for you or for the child. Only give school-age children food that has been approved or provided for them.

8. School-age children like active games and craft projects.

You may have forgotten how much fun it is to play board games, play with Lego® blocks, or create art pieces. When outside, keep school-age children entertained with a jump rope, games like Mother May I, or with sports such as basketball. Find more ideas to entertain school age children.

School-age children are easier to babysit for than younger children, especially infants and toddlers. When babysitting a school-age child for the first time, schedule 30 minutes with the employer to discuss the child’s needs and house rules.