How to Start a Babysitting Service

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Whether you want to make a little pocket money or have bigger goals in mind, babysitting is a rewarding way to earn cash, help parents, and spread your wings as an entrepreneur.

Step 1: Make a business plan
Make a business plan that defines prospective customers for your babysitting service, how much you will charge, and whether you will accept cash, checks, or allow parents to run a tab.

Tip
Your rates should be competitive with other sitters in your neighborhood.

Step 2: Assess your skills
Assess your skills, which should include first aid, meal preparation, changing diapers, entertaining kids, and knowing how to discipline them fairly. Then bone up on skills you any skills you lack by researching or taking a course.

Step 3: Find your comfort level
Find your comfort level, identifying age groups you handle and manage best. Stick with caring for children in that age group first.

Step 4: Interview prospective clients
Interview prospective clients to evaluate their expectations and to determine whether their environment is a safe place in which to work.

Tip
Get personal recommendations to interest clients and start your business.

Step 5: Advertise your babysitting service
Advertise your babysitting service in your neighborhood with flyers, place classified ads, and spread the news of your new service through word of mouth.

Did You Know?
The original Baby-Sitters Club book series for tweens has sold over 170 million copies.