Babysitting a Teen

Babysitting a teen can be a challenge because it is sometimes hard to know how much supervision a teenager needs or desires. Teenagers have more independence than children and in most cases are in a better position to take care of themselves. Your role will be to provide a good role model for a teenager and to be available as someone they can come to if they need help or direction in a situation.

Instructions

    • 1

      Ask a teenager what she wants to do when you are babysitting her. A teenager will generally know what she wants to do more than a child, so allow her to provide direction to how you are going to spend your time together. If she wants to hang out with other friends, make sure her parents are aware and approve. You do not need to have a constant watch over the teenager, but you should always be aware of where she is and what activities she is engaging in.

    • 2

      Provide a positive example for a teenager by trying to be respectful and considerate of him and others. Be polite to other people that you encounter and do not use inappropriate language or have discussions with a teenager that he should be having with his parents. If a teenager asks you for advice about a problem he is having, make sure that any advice you give would be considered appropriate and helpful by the teen's parents or guardians.

    • 3

      Make sure you provide the teen with proper nutrition in her day, as well as all the help she may need with school homework or household chores. Engage the teen by asking her what she needs to complete for the day or evening, such as homework from school or chores from home.

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