Daycare.com Forum
Daycare Center and Family Home Forum>Babysitter Or Childcare Provider
blueclouds29 01:17 PM 06-20-2011
I have been thinking on this for a long time when one of my dcm's introduced me to her mother as their son's 'babysitter'. I don't know how i feel about this. I prepare 3 meals a day, do circle time, art projects and many other things. For all that i don't want to be just a 'babysitter'. If that's the case then what am doing all that for?
What are your feelings on this?
What are your feelings on this?
Country Kids 01:41 PM 06-20-2011
Nothing frustrates me more than being called a "Babysitter". 
All my clients call me that and have for the 15 years I have been doing this! 
No matter how often I correct them, put it in newsletter, etc. I'm still the babysitter! One I don't even take babies and two this is my career chose, not something I do in the evenings to make a few bucks. This actually is a job that pays my bills. Last week I had it done to me twice and I was so frustrated by it. I don't think we will be looked at anything more than that though and I have never in my life heard of a parent refer to us as a childcare provider.
All my clients call me that and have for the 15 years I have been doing this! No matter how often I correct them, put it in newsletter, etc. I'm still the babysitter! One I don't even take babies and two this is my career chose, not something I do in the evenings to make a few bucks. This actually is a job that pays my bills. Last week I had it done to me twice and I was so frustrated by it. I don't think we will be looked at anything more than that though and I have never in my life heard of a parent refer to us as a childcare provider.
grandmom 02:04 PM 06-20-2011
Parents usually only make that mistake once with me.
I (lovingly) say these words:
A babysitter, comes to your home, eats your food, watches your tv, and talks on the phone to her boyfriend, while your child runs amuck, leaving a mess for you to clean up when you get home.
I have a degree in early education, provide a preschool environment, healthy snacks, and claim my income to the IRS.
If you would like me to be your babysitter, I charge $20 an hour. What night would you like me to start.
I (lovingly) say these words:
A babysitter, comes to your home, eats your food, watches your tv, and talks on the phone to her boyfriend, while your child runs amuck, leaving a mess for you to clean up when you get home.
I have a degree in early education, provide a preschool environment, healthy snacks, and claim my income to the IRS.
If you would like me to be your babysitter, I charge $20 an hour. What night would you like me to start.
MarinaVanessa 02:42 PM 06-20-2011
lol Nothing me bothers me more than being called a babysitter either 
. This never comes up unless I'm being introduced to someone by a DC parent. Last year at DCB's birthday party DCM introduced me to her sister and said "this is ____, DCB's babysitter" and I offered her sister a handshake and eye contact and just said "Child care provider. Pleased to meet you". DCM didn't catch on but sister did. Next I was introduced to a friend of DCM the same. Again I shook her hand and replied with a smile "Child care provider. Pleased to meet you". That time the DCM took notice but still introduced me to another friend of hers as the babysitter and again I replied the same. After the third time she caught on. 
. This never comes up unless I'm being introduced to someone by a DC parent. Last year at DCB's birthday party DCM introduced me to her sister and said "this is ____, DCB's babysitter" and I offered her sister a handshake and eye contact and just said "Child care provider. Pleased to meet you". DCM didn't catch on but sister did. Next I was introduced to a friend of DCM the same. Again I shook her hand and replied with a smile "Child care provider. Pleased to meet you". That time the DCM took notice but still introduced me to another friend of hers as the babysitter and again I replied the same. After the third time she caught on.
sharlan 02:47 PM 06-20-2011
I don't sit on babies.
Cat Herder 02:56 PM 06-20-2011
I could care less either way. Babysitter or Childcare Provider; Secretary or Administrative Assistant; Garbage man or Sanitation worker...it is all the same to me. 
I, however, am not a Teacher. I have not earned that...my sisters have.
I, however, am not a Teacher. I have not earned that...my sisters have.
daycare 03:13 PM 06-20-2011
Originally Posted by sharlan:
I don't sit on babies.
youre funnyI don't sit on babies.
the english language is funny
where I come from it translates to child minder, not baby sitter....lol
Michelle 07:22 AM 06-21-2011
Originally Posted by sharlan:
I don't sit on babies.
I don't sit on babies.
delferka 02:55 PM 05-18-2015
That is an awesome comeback!!!!!!
!
!
Originally Posted by grandmom:
Parents usually only make that mistake once with me.
I (lovingly) say these words:
A babysitter, comes to your home, eats your food, watches your tv, and talks on the phone to her boyfriend, while your child runs amuck, leaving a mess for you to clean up when you get home.
I have a degree in early education, provide a preschool environment, healthy snacks, and claim my income to the IRS.
If you would like me to be your babysitter, I charge $20 an hour. What night would you like me to start.
Parents usually only make that mistake once with me.
I (lovingly) say these words:
A babysitter, comes to your home, eats your food, watches your tv, and talks on the phone to her boyfriend, while your child runs amuck, leaving a mess for you to clean up when you get home.
I have a degree in early education, provide a preschool environment, healthy snacks, and claim my income to the IRS.
If you would like me to be your babysitter, I charge $20 an hour. What night would you like me to start.
LadyK8 03:59 PM 05-18-2015
This isn't a battle I'm willing to fight.
Meeko 06:46 PM 06-20-2011
I still get this sometimes, but I always correct them!
Over the years I have tried to guide their thinking too. I word my contract and handbook to say things like "the day care" instead of "my house" for example. I refer to "the business" as much as possible too instead of "me". I want them to think of me as a professional and not just the gal who watches the kids. But it's a tough one! I don't think we'll ever really get out from under the "babysitter" label.....
Over the years I have tried to guide their thinking too. I word my contract and handbook to say things like "the day care" instead of "my house" for example. I refer to "the business" as much as possible too instead of "me". I want them to think of me as a professional and not just the gal who watches the kids. But it's a tough one! I don't think we'll ever really get out from under the "babysitter" label.....
PitterPatter 07:10 PM 06-20-2011
It irritates me to be called a babysitter and I have made the correction with the differences pointed out, (BTW good job Grandmom) then I get an "ohhhh yeah that's right sorry" Then a few months from then they mention they are at the babysitter's when arriving on the cell phone. Ya can't win and it's not a battle worth fighting so I make the correction once and if it sticks great but usually, not so much.
Lucy 08:05 PM 06-20-2011
I found these poems that I think fit the situation. I might use some of them for future new clients!
CHILDCARE PROVIDER, BABYSITTER & NANNY
Childcare provider:
A professional childcare server who contracts with a client
to hold one slot out of a limited number of available slots exclusively for your child,
with a pre- determined set of hours, for a pre-determined fee per year.
Installments of this fee are usually paid on a weekly/bi-weekly/or on a monthly basis.
This usually includes a provider who is certified in first aid and CPR.
Takes classes, workshop, and attends seminars and conference to stay current on the latest techniques in dealing with age appropriate development of the children in their care.
In most states these Providers have usually undergone criminal back ground checks of themselves and all members over 18 residing in their home.
They are required to have regular medical check ups for all personel in the daycare home.
The providers home undergoes inspections by their licensing agency and regular inspections from the state fire marshall.
Baby-sitter:
A person who usually watches a child in the parents home on an irregular basis,
is not guaranteed to be there for the parent on a regular basis,
is rarely trained in basic life support or first aid, and usually does not provide age appropriate activities for the children in their care,
and is not limited in the amount of children they may have in their care at any one time.
Nanny:
A person hired by one family to provide care for their children on a regular basis in the child's home.
As this person is an employee of the parents, it is usually up to the parents to require and pay for a criminal back ground check if they so desire.
They do not have any kind of inspections by state agencies as they are the employee of the parents working in a private home.
~~~Author Unknown~~~
ODE TO DAYCARE
Little children come to me
For hugs and books and such,
I care for all their simple needs
And also fix them lunch
I pick up toys, mop up spills,
And dry their little tears,
I change diapers,settle fights,
And kiss away their fears.
I tie shoes, button coats,
And push them on the swing,
I really love these kids you see,
But there is one thing.
Call me Mom, or Aunt, or Teacher,
But please don't call me sitter,
Cause I never get to sit!.
~~Author Unknown~~
TOUCHING THE FUTURE
I don't wear power suits,
make speeches,
or drive a fancy sports car.
I've never talked on a car phone,
made a big sale,
or been elected to the Senate.
I don't "do lunch",
have a big imppressive office or carry a beeper.
I spend my days wiping away tears,
giving hugs,
and serving chicken nuggets.
A good day is when I go through a whole day
without a temper tantrum,
bite mark,
or a toilet training accident.
My "office" is a room full of brightly colored toys
and laughing children.
You may not think that what I do is very important
and you may even whisper behind my back
"what a waste of a good mind."
But I know better.
I make a difference
because I'm changing the world
one child at a time.
Everyday I'm getting the once in a lifetime chance
to touch the future.
I'm proud to say "I'm a child care provider"
~~By Marti Doyle~~
I AM A PROFESSIONAL
I am a professional. I may have chosen this line of work because I love children and I enjoy my job, but this is still my job/business. I have received specialized education and/or training to be a caregiver and educator for young children.
I AM NOT A BABYSITTER; I AM A PROFESSIONAL. I AM NOT GETTING RICH.
In many places childcare workers make less then public sanitation workers, secretaries and other jobs that require a lot less education and experience.
I do get paid in smiles, hugs and recognition of appreciation from families. I need you to read all material and notices. I am counting on you to know the information I send to you in writing. This includes newsletters, notes and contract material. It is important that you communicate with me. Let me know in advance if there will be a change in your child’s schedule, or the services you will need. If I ask you to bring in supplies for your child, please do. And make sure supplies are replenished as needed. This may include extra clothes, occasional art supplies, diapers etc.
Remember your child is not the only child in my care. Although I do my best to provide individualized attention at times, I am often unable to change polices or disrupt plans to accommodate the needs of one family. Please do not send your child if they are ill. If they are too ill to participate in the day’s activities they are too ill to be in care. I need to protect the health of other children as well. If your child is or WAS ill, please notify me.
I recognize that you are the most important person in your child’s life. I hope that we can work as a partnership for what is best for your child. Please share with me any concerns or questions about your child’s care and development. Work with me in helping your child learn, grow and develop.
~~Author Unknown~~
CHILDCARE PROVIDER, BABYSITTER & NANNY
Childcare provider:
A professional childcare server who contracts with a client
to hold one slot out of a limited number of available slots exclusively for your child,
with a pre- determined set of hours, for a pre-determined fee per year.
Installments of this fee are usually paid on a weekly/bi-weekly/or on a monthly basis.
This usually includes a provider who is certified in first aid and CPR.
Takes classes, workshop, and attends seminars and conference to stay current on the latest techniques in dealing with age appropriate development of the children in their care.
In most states these Providers have usually undergone criminal back ground checks of themselves and all members over 18 residing in their home.
They are required to have regular medical check ups for all personel in the daycare home.
The providers home undergoes inspections by their licensing agency and regular inspections from the state fire marshall.
Baby-sitter:
A person who usually watches a child in the parents home on an irregular basis,
is not guaranteed to be there for the parent on a regular basis,
is rarely trained in basic life support or first aid, and usually does not provide age appropriate activities for the children in their care,
and is not limited in the amount of children they may have in their care at any one time.
Nanny:
A person hired by one family to provide care for their children on a regular basis in the child's home.
As this person is an employee of the parents, it is usually up to the parents to require and pay for a criminal back ground check if they so desire.
They do not have any kind of inspections by state agencies as they are the employee of the parents working in a private home.
~~~Author Unknown~~~
ODE TO DAYCARE
Little children come to me
For hugs and books and such,
I care for all their simple needs
And also fix them lunch
I pick up toys, mop up spills,
And dry their little tears,
I change diapers,settle fights,
And kiss away their fears.
I tie shoes, button coats,
And push them on the swing,
I really love these kids you see,
But there is one thing.
Call me Mom, or Aunt, or Teacher,
But please don't call me sitter,
Cause I never get to sit!.
~~Author Unknown~~
TOUCHING THE FUTURE
I don't wear power suits,
make speeches,
or drive a fancy sports car.
I've never talked on a car phone,
made a big sale,
or been elected to the Senate.
I don't "do lunch",
have a big imppressive office or carry a beeper.
I spend my days wiping away tears,
giving hugs,
and serving chicken nuggets.
A good day is when I go through a whole day
without a temper tantrum,
bite mark,
or a toilet training accident.
My "office" is a room full of brightly colored toys
and laughing children.
You may not think that what I do is very important
and you may even whisper behind my back
"what a waste of a good mind."
But I know better.
I make a difference
because I'm changing the world
one child at a time.
Everyday I'm getting the once in a lifetime chance
to touch the future.
I'm proud to say "I'm a child care provider"
~~By Marti Doyle~~
I AM A PROFESSIONAL
I am a professional. I may have chosen this line of work because I love children and I enjoy my job, but this is still my job/business. I have received specialized education and/or training to be a caregiver and educator for young children.
I AM NOT A BABYSITTER; I AM A PROFESSIONAL. I AM NOT GETTING RICH.
In many places childcare workers make less then public sanitation workers, secretaries and other jobs that require a lot less education and experience.
I do get paid in smiles, hugs and recognition of appreciation from families. I need you to read all material and notices. I am counting on you to know the information I send to you in writing. This includes newsletters, notes and contract material. It is important that you communicate with me. Let me know in advance if there will be a change in your child’s schedule, or the services you will need. If I ask you to bring in supplies for your child, please do. And make sure supplies are replenished as needed. This may include extra clothes, occasional art supplies, diapers etc.
Remember your child is not the only child in my care. Although I do my best to provide individualized attention at times, I am often unable to change polices or disrupt plans to accommodate the needs of one family. Please do not send your child if they are ill. If they are too ill to participate in the day’s activities they are too ill to be in care. I need to protect the health of other children as well. If your child is or WAS ill, please notify me.
I recognize that you are the most important person in your child’s life. I hope that we can work as a partnership for what is best for your child. Please share with me any concerns or questions about your child’s care and development. Work with me in helping your child learn, grow and develop.
~~Author Unknown~~
Lucy 08:29 PM 06-20-2011
Here's the one I was originally looking for, and I finally found it:
Definition of a Child Care Provider (NOT "Babysitter"!)
Child Care Pro-vi-der (child'kâr prõ vid'er)n. chef, baker, janitor, sock and shoe finder, coat buttoner, boot fitter, bottle washer, grocery shopper, diaper changer, protector, dish washer, nose wiper, vegetable pusher, floor sweeper, waiter, story teller, playground attendant, PE teacher, activity director, driver, zoo keeper, inspector, aerobics instructor, tutor, entertainer, therapist, manager, derby instructor, performer, bookkeeper, self-esteem builder, teacher, helper, well wisher, nurse, traffic controller, noise controller, life saver, thinker, problem solver, engineer, designer, counselor, safety instructor, arbitrator, creator, inventor, companion, musician, historian, technician, dietitian, athlete, beautician, fire marshall, analyst, artist, dentist, scientist, biologist, technologist, accountant, manicurist, receptionist, environmentalist, pharmacist, hygienist, speech therapist, reader, builder, informer, composer, supervisor, author, navigator, peacemaker, friend. . . . . . .
~author unknown
Definition of a Child Care Provider (NOT "Babysitter"!)
Child Care Pro-vi-der (child'kâr prõ vid'er)n. chef, baker, janitor, sock and shoe finder, coat buttoner, boot fitter, bottle washer, grocery shopper, diaper changer, protector, dish washer, nose wiper, vegetable pusher, floor sweeper, waiter, story teller, playground attendant, PE teacher, activity director, driver, zoo keeper, inspector, aerobics instructor, tutor, entertainer, therapist, manager, derby instructor, performer, bookkeeper, self-esteem builder, teacher, helper, well wisher, nurse, traffic controller, noise controller, life saver, thinker, problem solver, engineer, designer, counselor, safety instructor, arbitrator, creator, inventor, companion, musician, historian, technician, dietitian, athlete, beautician, fire marshall, analyst, artist, dentist, scientist, biologist, technologist, accountant, manicurist, receptionist, environmentalist, pharmacist, hygienist, speech therapist, reader, builder, informer, composer, supervisor, author, navigator, peacemaker, friend. . . . . . .
~author unknown
Pammie 04:11 AM 06-21-2011
I like to choose my battles, and being called a "babysitter" vs "daycare provider" is not one I choose to fight. Yes, it used to really bother me, and I would correct each and every dcp that used the babysitter word within my earshot. But now, I choose not to fight a battle I can't win - as long as they treat me with respect and pay/pickup on time, they can call me "babysitter", "nanny", "teacher", "childcare giver", whatever they choose
But it's just not our profession that battles this I know.
I'm sure that the trash collectors would prefer to be referred to as "sanitation engineers" but every Tuesday when we hear that big truck in the neighborhood, I'm the first one to tell the children, "Here comes the garbage man!"
And the kids all run and wave like crazy to the guys.
But it's just not our profession that battles this I know.
I'm sure that the trash collectors would prefer to be referred to as "sanitation engineers" but every Tuesday when we hear that big truck in the neighborhood, I'm the first one to tell the children, "Here comes the garbage man!"
And the kids all run and wave like crazy to the guys.
QualiTcare 10:40 PM 06-21-2011
[quote=Joyce;121412]I found these poems that I think fit the situation. I might use some of them for future new clients!
ODE TO DAYCARE
Little children come to me
For hugs and books and such,
I care for all their simple needs
And also fix them lunch
I pick up toys, mop up spills,
And dry their little tears,
I change diapers,settle fights,
And kiss away their fears.
I tie shoes, button coats,
And push them on the swing,
I really love these kids you see,
But there is one thing.
Call me Mom, or Aunt, or Teacher,
But please don't call me sitter,
Cause I never get to sit!.
~~Author Unknown~~
[color="Red"]TOUCHING THE FUTURE
i printed out copies of a poem just like this (it was a bit different, but the last line was exact) and put them in frames from the dollar tree as part of the gifts for my kid's childcare providers when they were younger. they hung them in their rooms and it was so easy/cheap to do.
ODE TO DAYCARE
Little children come to me
For hugs and books and such,
I care for all their simple needs
And also fix them lunch
I pick up toys, mop up spills,
And dry their little tears,
I change diapers,settle fights,
And kiss away their fears.
I tie shoes, button coats,
And push them on the swing,
I really love these kids you see,
But there is one thing.
Call me Mom, or Aunt, or Teacher,
But please don't call me sitter,
Cause I never get to sit!.
~~Author Unknown~~
[color="Red"]TOUCHING THE FUTURE
i printed out copies of a poem just like this (it was a bit different, but the last line was exact) and put them in frames from the dollar tree as part of the gifts for my kid's childcare providers when they were younger. they hung them in their rooms and it was so easy/cheap to do.
Country Kids 08:10 AM 06-23-2011
I had to bring this post back up because I'm pretty bummed. Just found out that a friend of mine's daughter (teenager) is babysitting and making more an hour/week than I am. She is making about .75 cents more an hour than I am but thats quite a bit. Maybe I will go into jus babysitting! She also is just taking care of one child who is an older SA. No diaper changing, no having to help feed, wash hands, help going to the bathroom-how nice.
LysesKids 01:32 PM 05-18-2015
Originally Posted by Lucy:
I found these poems that I think fit the situation. I might use some of them for future new clients!
CHILDCARE PROVIDER, BABYSITTER & NANNY
Childcare provider:
A professional childcare server who contracts with a client
to hold one slot out of a limited number of available slots exclusively for your child,
with a pre- determined set of hours, for a pre-determined fee per year.
Installments of this fee are usually paid on a weekly/bi-weekly/or on a monthly basis.
This usually includes a provider who is certified in first aid and CPR.
Takes classes, workshop, and attends seminars and conference to stay current on the latest techniques in dealing with age appropriate development of the children in their care.
In most states these Providers have usually undergone criminal back ground checks of themselves and all members over 18 residing in their home.
They are required to have regular medical check ups for all personel in the daycare home.
The providers home undergoes inspections by their licensing agency and regular inspections from the state fire marshall.
Baby-sitter:
A person who usually watches a child in the parents home on an irregular basis,
is not guaranteed to be there for the parent on a regular basis,
is rarely trained in basic life support or first aid, and usually does not provide age appropriate activities for the children in their care,
and is not limited in the amount of children they may have in their care at any one time.
Nanny:
A person hired by one family to provide care for their children on a regular basis in the child's home.
As this person is an employee of the parents, it is usually up to the parents to require and pay for a criminal back ground check if they so desire.
They do not have any kind of inspections by state agencies as they are the employee of the parents working in a private home.
~~~Author Unknown~~~
ODE TO DAYCARE
Little children come to me
For hugs and books and such,
I care for all their simple needs
And also fix them lunch
I pick up toys, mop up spills,
And dry their little tears,
I change diapers,settle fights,
And kiss away their fears.
I tie shoes, button coats,
And push them on the swing,
I really love these kids you see,
But there is one thing.
Call me Mom, or Aunt, or Teacher,
But please don't call me sitter,
Cause I never get to sit!.
~~Author Unknown~~
TOUCHING THE FUTURE
I don't wear power suits,
make speeches,
or drive a fancy sports car.
I've never talked on a car phone,
made a big sale,
or been elected to the Senate.
I don't "do lunch",
have a big imppressive office or carry a beeper.
I spend my days wiping away tears,
giving hugs,
and serving chicken nuggets.
A good day is when I go through a whole day
without a temper tantrum,
bite mark,
or a toilet training accident.
My "office" is a room full of brightly colored toys
and laughing children.
You may not think that what I do is very important
and you may even whisper behind my back
"what a waste of a good mind."
But I know better.
I make a difference
because I'm changing the world
one child at a time.
Everyday I'm getting the once in a lifetime chance
to touch the future.
I'm proud to say "I'm a child care provider"
~~By Marti Doyle~~
I AM A PROFESSIONAL
I am a professional. I may have chosen this line of work because I love children and I enjoy my job, but this is still my job/business. I have received specialized education and/or training to be a caregiver and educator for young children.
I AM NOT A BABYSITTER; I AM A PROFESSIONAL. I AM NOT GETTING RICH.
In many places childcare workers make less then public sanitation workers, secretaries and other jobs that require a lot less education and experience.
I do get paid in smiles, hugs and recognition of appreciation from families. I need you to read all material and notices. I am counting on you to know the information I send to you in writing. This includes newsletters, notes and contract material. It is important that you communicate with me. Let me know in advance if there will be a change in your child’s schedule, or the services you will need. If I ask you to bring in supplies for your child, please do. And make sure supplies are replenished as needed. This may include extra clothes, occasional art supplies, diapers etc.
Remember your child is not the only child in my care. Although I do my best to provide individualized attention at times, I am often unable to change polices or disrupt plans to accommodate the needs of one family. Please do not send your child if they are ill. If they are too ill to participate in the day’s activities they are too ill to be in care. I need to protect the health of other children as well. If your child is or WAS ill, please notify me.
I recognize that you are the most important person in your child’s life. I hope that we can work as a partnership for what is best for your child. Please share with me any concerns or questions about your child’s care and development. Work with me in helping your child learn, grow and develop.
~~Author Unknown~~
I "knew" Marti Doyle when she was a provider (long time ago when I first started); I remember when Touching the Future was written & why she quit being a provider too. Originally the poem was listed on another ForumI found these poems that I think fit the situation. I might use some of them for future new clients!
CHILDCARE PROVIDER, BABYSITTER & NANNY
Childcare provider:
A professional childcare server who contracts with a client
to hold one slot out of a limited number of available slots exclusively for your child,
with a pre- determined set of hours, for a pre-determined fee per year.
Installments of this fee are usually paid on a weekly/bi-weekly/or on a monthly basis.
This usually includes a provider who is certified in first aid and CPR.
Takes classes, workshop, and attends seminars and conference to stay current on the latest techniques in dealing with age appropriate development of the children in their care.
In most states these Providers have usually undergone criminal back ground checks of themselves and all members over 18 residing in their home.
They are required to have regular medical check ups for all personel in the daycare home.
The providers home undergoes inspections by their licensing agency and regular inspections from the state fire marshall.
Baby-sitter:
A person who usually watches a child in the parents home on an irregular basis,
is not guaranteed to be there for the parent on a regular basis,
is rarely trained in basic life support or first aid, and usually does not provide age appropriate activities for the children in their care,
and is not limited in the amount of children they may have in their care at any one time.
Nanny:
A person hired by one family to provide care for their children on a regular basis in the child's home.
As this person is an employee of the parents, it is usually up to the parents to require and pay for a criminal back ground check if they so desire.
They do not have any kind of inspections by state agencies as they are the employee of the parents working in a private home.
~~~Author Unknown~~~
ODE TO DAYCARE
Little children come to me
For hugs and books and such,
I care for all their simple needs
And also fix them lunch
I pick up toys, mop up spills,
And dry their little tears,
I change diapers,settle fights,
And kiss away their fears.
I tie shoes, button coats,
And push them on the swing,
I really love these kids you see,
But there is one thing.
Call me Mom, or Aunt, or Teacher,
But please don't call me sitter,
Cause I never get to sit!.
~~Author Unknown~~
TOUCHING THE FUTURE
I don't wear power suits,
make speeches,
or drive a fancy sports car.
I've never talked on a car phone,
made a big sale,
or been elected to the Senate.
I don't "do lunch",
have a big imppressive office or carry a beeper.
I spend my days wiping away tears,
giving hugs,
and serving chicken nuggets.
A good day is when I go through a whole day
without a temper tantrum,
bite mark,
or a toilet training accident.
My "office" is a room full of brightly colored toys
and laughing children.
You may not think that what I do is very important
and you may even whisper behind my back
"what a waste of a good mind."
But I know better.
I make a difference
because I'm changing the world
one child at a time.
Everyday I'm getting the once in a lifetime chance
to touch the future.
I'm proud to say "I'm a child care provider"
~~By Marti Doyle~~
I AM A PROFESSIONAL
I am a professional. I may have chosen this line of work because I love children and I enjoy my job, but this is still my job/business. I have received specialized education and/or training to be a caregiver and educator for young children.
I AM NOT A BABYSITTER; I AM A PROFESSIONAL. I AM NOT GETTING RICH.
In many places childcare workers make less then public sanitation workers, secretaries and other jobs that require a lot less education and experience.
I do get paid in smiles, hugs and recognition of appreciation from families. I need you to read all material and notices. I am counting on you to know the information I send to you in writing. This includes newsletters, notes and contract material. It is important that you communicate with me. Let me know in advance if there will be a change in your child’s schedule, or the services you will need. If I ask you to bring in supplies for your child, please do. And make sure supplies are replenished as needed. This may include extra clothes, occasional art supplies, diapers etc.
Remember your child is not the only child in my care. Although I do my best to provide individualized attention at times, I am often unable to change polices or disrupt plans to accommodate the needs of one family. Please do not send your child if they are ill. If they are too ill to participate in the day’s activities they are too ill to be in care. I need to protect the health of other children as well. If your child is or WAS ill, please notify me.
I recognize that you are the most important person in your child’s life. I hope that we can work as a partnership for what is best for your child. Please share with me any concerns or questions about your child’s care and development. Work with me in helping your child learn, grow and develop.
~~Author Unknown~~
Unregistered 11:57 AM 11-19-2012
Is It Babysitting or Child Care?
Who does it? Babysitting: Usually teenagers Child Care: Usually adult females
What is it? Babysitting: Temporary care of children. Usually part-time. Child Care: Permanent care of children. Can be part- or full-time.
When is it done? Babysitting: Nights, weekends Child Care: Daily during typical working hours
How often is it done? Babysitting: Once or twice a week, or less. Child Care: Every working day of the year
Why is it done? Babysitting: For the sitter - to earn spending money. For the parent - to get a break from the kids. Child Care: For the provider - to self-support. For the parent - to provide care, guidance, and educational opportunities for children while parents work.
How is it done? Babysitting: Babysitter usually cares for one family's children at a time. Can be actively engaged with the children in play or be passively involved (supervising children while they are playing or asleep while babysitter engages in other activities like studying, watching TV, talking on the phone). Meets the custodial need for the children: feeds, changes diapers, bathes, beds.
Child Care: Child care provider meets the developmental and educational needs of young children. S/he stimulates language, intellectual, self-help, social/emotional, fine motor, and gross motor development by providing developmentally appropriate activities. Is actively engaged with groups of young children from several families simultaneously. Guides children toward positive behavior.
Where is it done? Babysitting: Typically the babysitter comes to the home of the family where services are required. Child Care: In child care facilities that are environments specifically designed for children.
How much does it cost? Babysitting: Usually a nominal per hour rate is charged based on the number of children. Often left up to the discretion of the parent. Child Care: Child care is a business. Parents may be billed an hourly rate per child, or billed weekly at a predetermined rate per child. Some centers offer sliding fee scales for more than one child in a family or for low-income families.
What kind of training is required? Babysitting: No training is required. Most babysitters have no training. Some may attend a brief 1-2 hour workshop on "how to baby-sit". Child Care: Annual training is required by the state for all registered or licensed child care facilities. Training varies from those who hold a baccalaureate degree, associates degree, or just the minimum required training.
Who does it? Babysitting: Usually teenagers Child Care: Usually adult females
What is it? Babysitting: Temporary care of children. Usually part-time. Child Care: Permanent care of children. Can be part- or full-time.
When is it done? Babysitting: Nights, weekends Child Care: Daily during typical working hours
How often is it done? Babysitting: Once or twice a week, or less. Child Care: Every working day of the year
Why is it done? Babysitting: For the sitter - to earn spending money. For the parent - to get a break from the kids. Child Care: For the provider - to self-support. For the parent - to provide care, guidance, and educational opportunities for children while parents work.
How is it done? Babysitting: Babysitter usually cares for one family's children at a time. Can be actively engaged with the children in play or be passively involved (supervising children while they are playing or asleep while babysitter engages in other activities like studying, watching TV, talking on the phone). Meets the custodial need for the children: feeds, changes diapers, bathes, beds.
Child Care: Child care provider meets the developmental and educational needs of young children. S/he stimulates language, intellectual, self-help, social/emotional, fine motor, and gross motor development by providing developmentally appropriate activities. Is actively engaged with groups of young children from several families simultaneously. Guides children toward positive behavior.
Where is it done? Babysitting: Typically the babysitter comes to the home of the family where services are required. Child Care: In child care facilities that are environments specifically designed for children.
How much does it cost? Babysitting: Usually a nominal per hour rate is charged based on the number of children. Often left up to the discretion of the parent. Child Care: Child care is a business. Parents may be billed an hourly rate per child, or billed weekly at a predetermined rate per child. Some centers offer sliding fee scales for more than one child in a family or for low-income families.
What kind of training is required? Babysitting: No training is required. Most babysitters have no training. Some may attend a brief 1-2 hour workshop on "how to baby-sit". Child Care: Annual training is required by the state for all registered or licensed child care facilities. Training varies from those who hold a baccalaureate degree, associates degree, or just the minimum required training.
nanglgrl 02:59 PM 11-19-2012
When she introduced you as her babysitter you could have said, "I assure you, I do not sit on her baby."
littlemissmuffet 03:18 PM 11-19-2012
Originally Posted by blueclouds29:
I have been thinking on this for a long time when one of my dcm's introduced me to her mother as their son's 'babysitter'. I don't know how i feel about this. I prepare 3 meals a day, do circle time, art projects and many other things. For all that i don't want to be just a 'babysitter'. If that's the case then what am doing all that for?
What are your feelings on this?
I have been thinking on this for a long time when one of my dcm's introduced me to her mother as their son's 'babysitter'. I don't know how i feel about this. I prepare 3 meals a day, do circle time, art projects and many other things. For all that i don't want to be just a 'babysitter'. If that's the case then what am doing all that for?
What are your feelings on this?
I'm not going to lie. I had someone call today and inquire about "a babysitter" - I told her I was full (true) and didn't offer to put on my waiting list... which I would normally do - but being called a "babysitter" seriously turned me off.When cirrent clients refer to me as "the babysitter", I quickly correct them and say "you mean childcare provider" and smile big
This usually ends me hearing that word form that particular mouth ever again!
MyAngels 03:28 PM 11-19-2012
Not that this topic is not still relevant - it is - but the original posts are from 2011.
Flyingblind 07:11 AM 05-18-2015
I don't really like being called a babysitter but it the grand scheme of things it isn't that big of a deal. I think of it in the same way as an administrative assistant being called a secretary. Times have changed but terminology hasn't in many areas so especially for those who aren't "politically correct".