Student Opinion Column: How I Achieved Superhero Status
Launch the media gallery 1 playerBabysitter, Nanny, Caregiver, whatever you may call it, teens can learn much more than they might think from these experiences.
According to care.com, there are many reasons why teenagers should babysit. Besides the obvious—earning money and getting to act like the kid you once were—there are much bigger benefits to reap from caring for children that can help any teen prepare for the future.
I feel that one of the most important advantages of being a teen babysitter is that it prepares me for the next step in my life. When babysitting, I get to meet many different families and parents, which leads me to having better communication skills and relationships.
As I begin to plan for college, these contacts that I have made will be a great reference on college and scholarship applications. The communication skills and relationships will also be helpful because they can give me the confidence to find new friends or talk to professors at college.
When I finish college, these skills will still be beneficial because they could help me in my job interviews and working with co-workers.
Another important advantage of being a teen babysitter is that it teaches me time management, patience, creativity, and responsibility. I have had to learn to prioritize my babysitting jobs along with my schoolwork and personal life. I
also have had to learn how to handle kids when they are having a “bad day.” In order for me to make their day better, I have to be creative and think of things that will put a smile on their face.
Finally, babysitting has taught me that the safety of children requires a high level of responsibility. The trust that the parents put in me to keep their children safe and happy is no small matter. Babysitting also prepares me and gives me ideas on how I want to raise my family in the future.
I do believe that teen babysitting has many beneficial aspects that every teen should consider. It will prepare young people for the future and teach them new skills.
After explaining all of the benefits of babysitting, I am still convinced that the most rewarding part about being a babysitter is becoming a superhero in a young child’s eyes. I love to see the look on their face when I step in the door or when I hear and see them in public as they wave and call my name. Just call me their Sitter Superhero!