Glow Up Your Babysitting Game

From getting the gig to taming toddlers, consider *this* your official guide to being the best babysitter on the block.

Dirty diapers. Temper tantrums. Picky eaters. Yep, babysitting definitely has its challenges. But if you think you have what it takes (and want to stash away some serious cash), we're breaking down everything you need to know to impress parents...and be every kid's favorite sitter.

PERFECT PREP

You've been helping your parents take care of your younger sibs for years, so you're totally ready to start your babysitting biz...right? Not so fast. Being a sitter is a major responsibility, so proper preparation is key.

GET CERTIFIED.

Show parents you're prepared to handle any sitch-from a minor cut to a major emergency by signing up for a CPR and first-aid course at your community center. Cement your pro status by taking a babysitting class, too (the American Red Cross offers one online at redcross.org).

READY YOUR REFERENCES.

Before chatting up potential clients, gather a few character references: Ask your youth group leader, a favorite teacher, your cross-country coach or a neighbor for a quick written endorsement. Then, put together a short brag sheet of quotes about you with their names and contact info. Having a few trusted adults vouch for how responsible you are is a great way to set yourself apart from the competition and prove to parents you're the girl for the job.

TEST THE WATERS.