Babysitting class builds confidence in youth in Fergus County

Published: 2022
By Sarah Bock

In August 2021, Fergus County MSU Extension Agent Sarah Bock partnered with Central Montana Medical Center staff to teach a babysitting clinic. During the six-hour class, 16 sixth- to eighth-grade students learned many different skills to assist them in babysitting their siblings or other children. During the morning, students learned about handling behavior issues with children of different ages, how to entertain them with games and activities, and what they should know about a child and the family before babysitting. They also practiced using a fire extinguisher and calling 911 in an emergency. Youth noted this was the day's highlight. In the afternoon, participants learned about safe sleep for infants, how to perform CPR, and basic first aid skills. There was also a presentation and discussion about babysitting as a business. Many youth stated they felt much more confident in their abilities to safely babysit as well as in their skills of communicating with parents. This class gives youth confidence and ensures they have reviewed common issues and what to do in an emergency to give families confidence in their abilities.