As a Training Partner with the Canadian Red Cross we are proud to run babysitting courses throughout the year all over the Ottawa area. The Red Cross curriculum is based off of learner centered teaching styles which means most learning is done through hands on activities and games instead of an instructor lecturing all day long. By having youth work in groups in a directed manor they can often learn and improve from each other’s previous experiences all while having fun with new found friends. The main objective of these babysitting courses is to build confidence as a future babysitter meaning there is no stressful exam at the end of the course. Skills learnt are beneficial well beyond simply babysitting and I would highly recommend them for any youth. As a father, a firefighter and a first aid instructor I cannot stress enough the value in taking a Canadian Red Cross Babysitting course.
So what all do the participants learn?
- Being a Responsible Leader: being a strong leader and knowing when to implement various leadership styles is a key responsibility of a babysitter. The skills that your children will learn are invaluable as they grow and venture into various activities and eventually into the work force.
- Childhood Characteristics: as a group we will discuss and focus on the characteristics and behavioral traits of various ages and how to plan appropriately for each age group.
- Creating Safe Environments: As advocates of prevention, all Red Cross babysitting programs teach and advocate preventing injuries. Through discovered learning we work with the youth on how to create a safe environment both in and outside the home.
- Caring for Children: Has your child ever changed or dressed a baby? Had to plan activities or discipline a younger child? These are just some of the topics covered in our caring for children section.
- First Aid: Although prevention is key, we understand accidents happen sometimes. Our experienced instructors will give your children the tools to handle a wide variety of first aid situations.
- Business of Babysitting: We wrap up our day with discussing the business of babysitting and how to find jobs, as well as expectations for themselves, the family they are caring for and their own personal family.
It may seem like a lot of information. No need to worry though as each participant goes home with not only their certificate of completion but their own copy of the Canadian Red Cross Babysitter’s Manual. The resources section of our website also has useful links to allow the participants to continue to be successful with their babysitting jobs for years to come.
Register online at www.helpinghandsfirstaid.ca
Helping Hands First Aid Training 