Baby Sitter Games to Play

Babysitting children is not only a way to make extra money but can be a chance to play a variety of games. PBS's website It's My Life suggests planning several games to entertain children. Children will look forward to the babysitter's arrival and not act out with inappropriate behavior, knowing fun activities will be planned. Avoid turning on the television or throwing in a DVD and using an electronic babysitter to watch the children for you. Choose a variety of games appropriate to each child's age. Ask parents what each child's interests are and suggestions for additional activities.

Toddler Water Fun

Toddlers enjoy mixing and measuring different amounts of water. Fill a large plastic tub with water and place in the kitchen or outside. Add a variety of empty containers such as measuring cups, shampoo bottles or yogurt cups. Show the child how to fill one bottle with another. For example, fill a large soap bottle with water and then pour into a smaller yogurt container. The child will have fun pouring but also understand the different containers hold different amounts of water. Depending on the season, bring the tub of water outside and dress the toddler in a swim suit. Not only will the toddler learn basic math skills, but a little splashing in the water adds to the fun.

Play Time

Plan a surprise play for parents. Create a story line the children can write, create scenery for and then act out. Bring a small suitcase of dress-up clothes including hats, sunglasses and scarves. Have the children create their characters and lines. For younger children, you can narrate the story and have the children simply act out the scenes using improv. Older children can write their own lines and read them off a piece of paper during the performance. Include music using instruments or a CD for additional fun.

Activities for Older Children

Older children may not feel a babysitter is necessary, but mom and dad may not agree. Talk at the appropriate age level when having a conversation with the child by listening to what the child has to say and engaging in the conversation. Ask what his favorite television show or board game is. Find out the name of the last book she read. Casually inquire about school subjects and find out what his favorite class is. Remember, the child may resent you being there, and it may take several babysitting sessions for the child to warm up to you. Occasionally, the older child may be very close to your own age. "The Babysitting Bible" suggests keeping your age anonymous if you feel age will become an issue. Choose activities such as jewelry making or bring a board game from home. Plan to make the child's favorite dessert for an afternoon treat. Make desserts from scratch or use a simple box recipe.