Any advice to being a stay at home mom and babysitting kids?

[lighthouse68]

I am not sure that I want to try the option of watching other peoples kids. Any suggestions of advice you can give? Right now I am watching my nieces and nephew and it has been rough. Not sure because it is family. They don't listen to anything you say and are always complaining or telling on someone.

Thanks.

[noelea]

 make sure the parents understand you have rules then make sure kids understand you have rules.make sure it is an age you can deal with.i have four kids of my own and i watch three extra. you have to pick and choose your battles.don't stress your self out make sure every one understands you are just the babysitter not a daycare or school. make sure they have some where to play toy's to play with and the tv on all day long even music can help. you don"t even have to go all out with lunch pband j sandwich meat and cheese sandwich cereal for breakfast hot dogs i mean you know what did you eat when you where a kid.keep it simple and easy ask parents to help with food every one can donate something to your pantry. i mean somtimes if i don't have alot of kids i will take them to mickey'ds let them play in the play area. swimming or they can play outside. it took me a while to figure these things out i hpe this helps you if i think of anything else i will tell you. this is a big one try to get your payment as soon as possible all parents need a baby sitter but if they can get away with not paying you THEY WILL! good luck and keep it simple  

[shamele]

well, if they don't want to listen don't be bothered!