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If you’ve ever said “time for bed” and been met with complete silence, you’re not alone. Getting kids to listen is one of the most common challenges babysitters face — and there are specific reasons it happens and specific things you can do to fix it. This Babysitter Boss episode covers exactly how to get kids to pay attention to you without losing your cool.
I thought babysitting would go something like this. Instead, it’s more like this.
Cookies … I think you guys need a break.
If you’re having trouble getting kids to listen, you’re not alone. Lots of babysitters experience this problem. There are several reasons that kids don’t listen. They aren’t paying attention to you, they don’t believe you’re serious, or they think they can get away with ignoring your requests. I know this makes you feel helpless but there are things you can do to get kids to pay attention to you.
First, get down on their level. This makes it hard for them to ignore you. Second, look them in the eye. This is not the time to be timid. That child needs to know that you’re talking directly to them and that you mean what you say.
Third, use your Babysitter Boss voice. What’s a Babysitter Boss voice? It’s easy. When you talk, slow down, and use a firm voice.
I’m sorry. No cookies. Your mom said no cookies tonight.
Ah, come on!
Be consistent, even if you have to repeat yourself several times.
No cookies. No cookies. No cookies. No cookies.
Remind the kids that it is your job to enforce the parent’s rules. If they continue to break the rules, it might be time to take a break.
I think you guys need a break. I want you to sit quietly for three minutes.
When time is up, tell them it’s time to start over.
Let’s start over. Would you guys like to play a game?
For more tips on how to handle difficult behavior when you’re babysitting, check out my video on bad behavior hacks.
