Starting My Own Babysitting Business

[HealingAngel]

I don't know if this should go into General Chat or General Support and Advice so I'm sorry if I put it in the wrong one! Any advice or positive words would be greatly appreciated though! I just want some more motivation to keep pursuing this because it's really difficult for someone under 18. This isn't an ad, I promise! ;D

I have 4 years of experience occasionally babysitting the children of family members and friends but now I'm looking to make it into a temporary career for at least the duration of my high school years (2 years).

I am currently 16 years old and I live in Washington state. I've also been recently CPR and First Aid certified. I'm very ambitious and I've tried to put in resumes to websites online specifically advertising local babysitters as well as local parent's in need of a babysitter, but I'm repeatedly kicked off of the website for being under the age of 18.

I really want to get in several hours a week with various families and I have a wonderful resume. My hours are flexible though I can't drive myself anywhere without a parent in the vehicle until October, so it makes things tricky. Nonetheless, I reallyyy want to get in more hours before summer is over with!

If you know of any good websites which would cater to my needs I'd love it if you coud add a link to them in your reply or inbox it to me. Any experience you've had or lessons you've learned about babysitting I'd love to hear about too! If you have any advice feel free to comment, I'll be sure to read each one and appreciate each piece of advice you have to offer me.

Thanks so much!

Also, to all of the parents out there: Where do you look for babysitters when you are in need of one and what else could I do to snag the attention of parents' in need of service? I really do love kids and I don't want to give up on this just because it's difficult for someone my age. Please no discouragements, I'd like only advice and positive comments! Thanks again! :)

[The One Who]

Since you are so young, I think you'd be better going through word-of-mouth with friends and family. Then you could also put up notices in shops, churches or other noticeboards.

In your advertisement say that you are first-aid trained and that you can provide references (if you can).

[HealingAngel]

I definitely can provide references and I think I'll probably design a flyer or brochure for my services, maybe both.

Which one do you think would be better, if any? I think a brochure would provide more space and a more professional layout but I'm not sure...

Also, I might design my own website for my business. Do you think that would be a good idea? Or do you think it wouldn't be worth the time and effort it takes to get one running?

[The One Who]

Honestly, as a sixteen year old I think a brochure and a website are going a bit overboard. Especially since you aren't providing a creche or child minder service, just a simple babysitting one.

[effervescence]

Yes I agree with the above. Even though you have great references etc and are really keen, you're still only a child offering babysitting (not to sound harsh at all, just stating the facts from a business point of view). So I think simple, eye-catching flyers around local areas (church, supermarket etc) and word of mouth are the most suitable for you.

[effervescence]

Also, research the current going rate in your area (ask around mums, see what they pay) and offer competetive rates. If you charge a lot more than everyone else you're not going to be very successful.