Are you looking for babysitting jobs for 13 year olds?
Or perhaps you’re a parent looking to guide your teen in finding the perfect part-time job?
Either way, you’re in the right place!
Babysitting is a fantastic opportunity for young teens to gain responsibility, develop valuable skills, and earn some money while they’re at it.
In this article, we’ll explore the best ways for 13-year-olds to find babysitting jobs and share our top tips for getting started.
So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Babysitting Jobs for 13-Year-Olds: Is It Right for You?
Before jumping into the world of babysitting, it’s essential to make sure you’re ready for the responsibility that comes with it.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself or discuss with your parents before getting started:
Do you love kids?
Babysitting is all about taking care of children, so having a genuine fondness for them is crucial. You’ll need patience, understanding, and a playful spirit to connect with the little ones.
Are you responsible and respectful?
Parents trust babysitters with their precious children, so it’s important to be reliable and respectful.
You should be on time, follow the parents’ instructions, and always prioritize the child’s safety and well-being.
Are you old enough to look after younger kids?
At 13, you might be ready to take care of younger children, but make sure to evaluate your maturity and ability to handle various situations.
Also, consider the age of the children you’ll be babysitting and whether you feel comfortable looking after them.
Do you have any babysitting qualifications?
While not always required, having some certifications, like CPR and first aid, can make you a more appealing babysitter.
Taking a babysitting course or attending workshops can help prepare you for the job and give parents more confidence in your abilities.
What Do Babysitters Do? A Quick Overview
Babysitters play a crucial role in caring for children when parents are away. They ensure the child’s safety, comfort, and happiness.
Some typical babysitting tasks include:
- Supervising the child’s activities and ensuring their safety
- Preparing and serving meals or snacks
- Assisting with hygiene tasks, like bathing or diaper changing
- Engaging the child in age-appropriate games or activities
- Helping with homework or tutoring, if needed
- Maintaining a bedtime routine and putting the child to sleep
- Handling emergencies, such as injuries or illnesses
- Communicating with parents about the child’s behavior and well-being
How Much Can You Make Babysitting at 13?
The amount you can earn from babysitting at 13 will vary depending on factors like your location, experience, and the specific job requirements.
On average, a 13-year-old babysitter might earn between $5 and $10 per hour.
However, this rate can increase if you have certifications, like CPR and first aid, or if you offer additional services such as tutoring, pet sitting, or light housekeeping.
To determine a fair rate, consider the following:
- Research the average babysitting rates in your area
- Assess your experience and qualifications
- Factor in the number of children and their ages
- Consider any additional responsibilities or tasks required by the parents
Remember, as you gain more experience and positive reviews, you can potentially increase your rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate with parents, but always be polite and professional during these discussions.
After all, babysitting is not only about making money but also building trust with families and creating a positive experience for the children under your care.
Ways to Find Babysitting Jobs at 13 (Best Options for 13-Year-Olds)
Finding babysitting jobs at 13 might seem challenging, but there are several ways to get started.
Here are some best options to help you find your first babysitting gig:
Word of mouth
Word of mouth is an incredibly effective method for finding babysitting jobs, as personal connections often lead to trust and credibility.
By sharing your interest in babysitting with friends, family, and neighbors, you can tap into a network of potential clients who already know and trust you.
To maximize word-of-mouth referrals, consider the following strategies:
- Create a positive experience for the families you babysit, as happy clients are more likely to recommend you to others.
- Attend local events, gatherings, or clubs where you can meet new families and showcase your babysitting skills.
- Utilize your parents’ connections and ask them to mention your babysitting services to their friends, colleagues, and acquaintances.
- Offer incentives or discounts for clients who refer new families to your babysitting services.
Business cards
Designing unique and professional-looking business cards can help you stand out as a babysitter.
Include your name, contact information, a brief description of your babysitting services, and any special qualifications or certifications you possess, such as CPR or first aid training.
Get creative with your card design by incorporating eye-catching colors, fonts, and a memorable logo or image.
Distribute your business cards to neighbors, friends, family, and other community members who might need a babysitter.
With permission, place your cards in high-traffic community areas such as community centers, libraries, local shops, places of worship, and coffee shops.
Use Facebook to find parents in your area who may be seeking babysitting services.
Prioritize safety when looking for work online and involve your parents in the process. They can help you message people they know on Facebook or assist you in drafting a message offering your services to send to local parents.
Inquire if the parents you’ve previously babysat for belong to any local parenting or community groups.
With their permission, you can either post about your babysitting services in these groups or ask the parents to recommend you to their network on Facebook.
Also, before posting in any Facebook group, check the rules to ensure you’re allowed to advertise. This helps avoid having your message deleted or being removed from the group.
Online ads
Advertising your babysitting services online can help you reach a wider audience.
Consider posting ads on local classified websites like Craigslist or Nextdoor, outlining your services, rates, experience, qualifications, and availability.
However, it’s essential to prioritize safety when advertising online. Involve your parents in creating your listing and responding to any inquiries.
If you plan to meet potential clients from the internet, always go with a parent or guardian and choose a public location. Never meet someone online on your own.
It’s normal for families to request an interview or meeting before leaving you with their children, so be cautious of anyone who asks you to go straight to their home for a babysitting job.
Babysitting flyers
Create eye-catching babysitting flyers with your contact information, skills, and a brief description of your services.
Include key information such as the area you cover, the ages you cater to, any special services you offer (e.g., weekend babysitting, First Aid or CPR certifications, after-school care), and your contact details like a phone number and email address.
With your parents’ permission, distribute the flyers in your neighborhood or post them on community bulletin boards in places like supermarkets, libraries, or schools.
YMCA and YWCA
Local community organizations like the YMCA and YWCA can be valuable resources for finding babysitting jobs as a 13-year-old.
These organizations often have strong connections with families and offer a variety of programs and services for children and parents.
By reaching out to them, you can tap into a network of potential clients who may be in need of babysitting services.
Strategies for leveraging YMCA and YWCA connections include:
- Posting babysitting flyers or business cards on bulletin boards.
- Attending events and activities to meet new families.
- Participating in childcare-related programs and classes.
- Discussing potential partnerships or referral programs with staff.
- Connecting with other community organizations, such as churches or recreational centers.
Partner with a local daycare center
Reaching out to local daycare centers can open doors to new babysitting opportunities.
Contact daycare centers near you and inquire if they would be willing to refer clients to you for evening or weekend care when their services are not available.
This approach works best if you already have a relationship with the daycare provider or have babysat children who attend the daycare and are acquainted with their parents.
Arrange a face-to-face meeting with the daycare provider to discuss the possibility of advertising your services to their clients.
Since daycare centers typically don’t offer care during evenings or weekends, they are unlikely to view your babysitting business as competition.
Best Platforms for Babysitting Jobs for 13 Years old
Finding babysitting jobs can be a bit tricky for young teens, as most websites and platforms cater to sitters who are at least 18 years old.
However, don’t let this discourage you! If you’re 13, 14, or 15 years old and eager to find babysitting work, there are still some options available for you to explore.
Bambino Sitters (13 and older)
Bambino is a babysitting app that leverages social media to connect you with sitters recommended by your friends and neighbors.
As a sitter, you can download the app and link it to your Facebook profile. Then, you can set your rates according to your age and experience level.
Junior sitters range from 13 to 15 years old; “standard” sitters are between 15 and 18 years old; advanced sitters are over 18 years old; and “elite” sitters are not only older but also have undergone background checks.
Pros:
- Bambino Sitters welcomes sitters aged 13 and up
- User-friendly interface for finding babysitting jobs in your area
- A reliable rating system helps you build a strong reputation
- Secure and quick payments directly to Venmo or bank account upon job completion
- Sitters have control over their own rates
- The platform focuses on local jobs, helping you find opportunities within your neighborhood or locality.
- The app requires at least one recommendation from an existing member or parent, ensuring that sitters have some level of trust and experience before joining.
Cons:
- Bambino requires a recommendation to become visible on the app, which might be a challenge for those new to babysitting or without previous experience.
- As the platform operates all over the United States, competition for jobs might be more intense in some areas.
- Bambino prohibits accepting jobs found through the app outside of the platform, and violations may result in removal
Sitters.co.uk (UK only, 13 and older)
Sitters.co.uk is a popular UK-based platform that connects babysitters with families in need.
While it offers a range of opportunities for childcare providers, there are some pros and cons to consider when using this platform as a 13-year-old.
Pros:
- Open to 13-year-old permanent UK citizens
- Thorough background verification process for safety
- Connects babysitters with working parents across the UK
Cons:
- Mainly caters to sitters aged 18 and older with at least two years of childcare experience
- More stringent requirements compared to other platforms
- Requires an interview process before being offered jobs
The average age of Childcarers on Sitters’ register is mid-thirties and most have worked in childcare for many years.
Therefore, it may not be the best option if you’re a 13 years old in the UK looking to start your babysitting journey as you will be competing with other more experience sitters.
Other Babysitting Apps & Sites to Find Work
The following platforms require sitters to be at least 16/18 years old to sign up.
We have included them here to give you options to explore with your parents’ guidance and adapt some of their tips for finding babysitting jobs locally.
You can learn from their screening process and apply those standards to your own babysitting services to stand out.
Care.com (18 and older)
Care.com is a popular and well-established platform for finding various caregiving services, including babysitting.
It is available in several English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, and Australia.
Apart from babysitting, Care.com also offers services like senior care, tutoring, housekeeping, daycare, and pet care.
Pros:
- User-friendly site acts as a job board for creating profiles, searching for jobs, and connecting with families
- Allows easy browsing and finding the best matches using filters, including location-based searches for jobs near you
- Does not take a cut or commission, so you keep all your income
Cons:
- Open only to people 18 and older
- Requires a Premium subscription to get more exposure
With Care.com, you are responsible for finding and applying to babysitting jobs on the platform.
After creating an account, you can scroll through thousands of available projects posted daily on their main job board.
Helpr (18 and older)
Helpr is an app that connects parents with pre-screened, trusted babysitters. This platform offers a range of features for both parents and babysitters.
However, there are certain requirements and processes that babysitters need to meet and follow.
Pros:
- Offers opportunities for teenagers with childcare experience
- Allows babysitters to set their own hourly rates
- Job search can be narrowed down by locality or place preference
- Provides support for employees with children and offers scalable care plans
Cons (although these are good for the employee):
- Requires at least two years of childcare experience and three references
- Babysitters must be at least 18 years old
- Involves a thorough screening process, including telephonic and in-person interviews, and complete background verification
- CPR certification is mandatory for applicants
Helpr can be a great option for experienced teenage babysitters looking to work in the US. Just keep in mind that the platform has stringent requirements and an extensive screening process.
However, learning from their screening process and standards can help you stand out in the babysitting market.
Bubble (UK only, 18 and older)
Bubble is a UK-based app that helps parents find babysitters using mutual connections and recommendations.
With its seamless interface, the app provides a simple and secure way for parents to connect with local babysitters and nannies.
Although as a 13-year-old, you may not be eligible to join the platform directly, you could ask your parents to reach out to their connections and recommend your babysitting services through the app.
Pros:
- Allows parents to browse, book, and pay for trusted childcare in minutes
- Connects babysitters with parents using mutual friends on Facebook
- Requires identity, eligibility to work, and reference checks for added safety
Cons:
- Only available for ages 18 and older
- Cannot accept references from friends, family, or other sitters on the app
- Requires connection to Facebook for registration
To become a sitter on Bubble, you need to download the app, complete the onboarding portal, which includes an identity check, a right-to-work check for non-UK passport holders, and a reference check.
Once your profile is activated, local parents can send you booking requests, which you can accept or reject via your phone. Payment is done through the app.
Babysits (16 an older)
Babysits is a free global platform that connects parents and babysitters, available in several parts of the world, including the Americas, Asia, Europe, Oceania, and Africa.
The platform acts as a community board for babysitting jobs, allowing babysitters to set their own hours and hourly rates.
Pros:
- Free platform for both parents and babysitters
- Available in multiple countries across the world
- No commission taken from babysitter’s earnings
- Unique badge system for babysitters to unlock more opportunities and higher rates
Cons:
- Does not screen every user; users responsible for screening, interviewing, and making their choice
- You need to pay a small fee to contact babysitters or childminders
- Minimum age requirement of 16 years
To join Babysits, you only need to sign up and create a profile. Afterward, you can access babysitting job listings, view profiles, read reviews, and receive feedback.
Interviews take place through the site’s built-in messaging system.
Sittercity (18 and older)
Sittercity is a well-known platform for finding babysitters, nannies, pet sitters, senior care specialists, and caregivers for individuals with special needs.
They require babysitters to be at least 18 years old. Sittercity can help you gain insights into the babysitting market, improve your skills, and market your services offline.
Pros:
- Allows babysitters to create detailed profiles, search and apply for jobs, and message families for free
- Offers a wide range of job possibilities, including part-time or full-time positions
- Provides opportunities for before-school or after-school care, nights, or weekends
- Sitters can work with multiple families simultaneously
Cons:
- Only available for ages 18 and older
- Babysitters may need to pay for background checks to stand out to families
On Sittercity, babysitters can browse jobs based on their zip code, create an online resume by making a detailed profile, apply for jobs, message interested parents, and schedule interviews.
They can also negotiate contracts with families to ensure job details are clear.
According to Sittercity’s data, babysitters in the US typically charge $17.50 an hour, but rates can vary based on location, job duties, and minimum wage laws.
BabySittersNow (Australia, 15 and older)
BabySittersNow is an Australian platform connecting babysitters with families, offering a free online directory for parents and carers to find childcare providers.
Although the platform requires sitters to be at least 15 years old, as a 13-year-old, you can learn from their strategies and prepare yourself to join the platform when you’re old enough.
Pros:
- Free membership for parents and babysitters
- Features a Junior Carer category for 15 to 17-year-olds
- Allows babysitters to enhance their profiles with low-cost upgrades
- Offers ID verification and SMS upgrades for improved communication
Cons:
- Only available for ages 15 and older
- Not accessible for users in Tasmania due to legal restrictions
To use BabySittersNow, create a profile, and once your account is activated, you can start contacting parents or babysitters. Parents can post job ads, and babysitters can apply for positions.
The platform also offers a review system where users can rate and review each other after a confirmed job.
Babysitting rates depend on factors like job description, location, qualifications, and timing. The platform ensures that all babysitters receive at least the national minimum wage.
Seeking Sitters (18 and older)
Seeking Sitters is a U.S.-based platform that connects families with pre-screened, professional babysitters.
Pros:
- Rigorous application process, including background investigation and identity verification
- Sitters are required to have CPR and First Aid certifications
- In-person interviews, work history reviews, and reference checks for added safety
- Online payment processing through OBT Online
- Offers one-time, part-time, and full-time sitters
Cons:
- Only available for ages 18 and older
- One-time, non-refundable sign-up fee of $59.99
To become a sitter on Seeking Sitters, you must be at least 18 years old, have extensive experience working with children, and hold current CPR and First Aid certifications.
The platform conducts in-depth background checks, including personal identification verification, social security number fraud alerts, national sex offender network checks, and civil and criminal record searches.
Additionally, Seeking Sitters interviews each sitter in person and checks up to three references.
Sitters are required to wear the Seeking Sitters uniform, avoid using cell phones during gigs, and ensure the house is tidy upon leaving.
Urban Sitter (18 and older)
UrbanSitter is a reputable U.S.-based platform that connects babysitters, nannies, pet sitters, senior caregivers, and housekeepers with families in need of their services.
The platform allows you to set your own hourly rate and keep 100% of your earnings, while offering a wide range of job opportunities and the flexibility to work around your schedule.
Pros:
- Free to use for caregivers
- Allows you to set your own hourly rate and schedule
- Offers a variety of job opportunities, including date night, after-school, part-time, full-time, vacation, and backup babysitting
- Parents are required to verify their identity for safety purposes
- Option to pay sitters online with a credit card, cash, check, or payment platform app
Cons:
- Only available for ages 18 and older
- Requires an annual membership and background check for caregivers
- Non-refundable annual membership fee
Tips to Boost Your Earnings as a 13-Year-Old Babysitter
As a young babysitter, it’s essential to find ways to set yourself apart and increase your earning potential.
Here are some tips to help you boost your earnings and become a sought-after babysitter at just 13 years old.
1. Get certified in CPR and first aid
Having CPR and first aid certifications can make you stand out among other babysitters.
It shows parents that you’re responsible, prepared for emergencies, and committed to the safety of their children.
2. Offer additional services like tutoring, pet sitting, or light housekeeping
If you’re skilled in a particular subject, love animals, or are willing to help with light housekeeping tasks, offering these additional services can help you earn extra cash and make you more appealing to families seeking a well-rounded caregiver.
3. Build a strong reputation with positive reviews and personal references
Ask families you’ve worked with to leave reviews and recommendations.
Additionally, gather personal references from teachers, coaches, or other adults who can vouch for your character and skills.
A good reputation will help you secure more babysitting jobs and possibly earn higher rates.
4. Be flexible with your schedule and open to last-minute jobs
Being available during evenings, weekends, school holidays, or on short notice can help you land more babysitting jobs.
Families appreciate flexibility and may choose you over other sitters with limited availability or who are unable to accommodate last-minute requests.
5. Develop age-appropriate activities and games for the children
Parents are more likely to hire a babysitter who can engage their children with fun and educational activities.
Familiarize yourself with age-appropriate games, crafts, and activities to keep the kids entertained and make your services more valuable.
6. Network with other parents and babysitters in your community
Connecting with other parents and babysitters can help you find new job opportunities and learn about best practices in babysitting.
Join local parent or babysitter groups, attend community events, and leverage social media to expand your network and showcase your skills.
Babysitting Jobs for 13-Year-Olds: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are several common questions related to babysitting jobs for a 13-year-old.
Can 13-year-olds be babysitters?
Yes, 13-year-olds can be babysitters. However, the legal working age and requirements may vary depending on the country or region.
It’s important for young babysitters to gain experience, acquire relevant certifications (such as CPR and first aid), and build a positive reputation to be considered reliable and trustworthy by parents.
Why should 13-year-olds babysit?
Babysitting can be an excellent opportunity for 13-year-olds to gain valuable work experience, develop responsibility, and earn money.
It teaches essential life skills like time management, problem-solving, and communication while also fostering empathy and patience.
Babysitting can also be a great stepping stone for young individuals interested in pursuing careers in childcare, education, or other related fields.
How do I get a job as a babysitter at 13?
To get a job as a babysitter at 13, follow these steps:
- Gain experience by babysitting for family members, neighbors, or friends.
- Obtain CPR and first aid certifications to showcase your preparedness for emergencies.
- Create a babysitting resume, highlighting your experience and skills.
- Advertise your services through word of mouth, local bulletin boards, or social media platforms.
- Set a competitive rate based on your skills and the local market.
- Collect positive reviews and recommendations from families you’ve worked with to build your reputation.
What is a good babysitting rate for a 13-year-old?
A good babysitting rate for a 13-year-old depends on various factors such as location, experience, and the number of children being cared for.
Rates may range from $5 to $10 per hour for a beginner babysitter, but it’s essential to research local market rates to set a competitive price.
Keep in mind that having additional skills like tutoring or pet sitting can justify charging a higher rate.
What are good babysitting apps for 13-year-olds?
There are very few babysitting apps that allow 13-year-olds to create profiles due to age restrictions and legal requirements. Bambino and Sitters.co.uk (UK only) are two platforms that accept 13-year-olds.
Young babysitters can ask their parents to help promote their services through family-friendly platforms or social media.
Also, consider using neighborhood apps or websites like Nextdoor to connect with local families in need of babysitting services.
Are babysitting websites safe?
Many babysitting websites prioritize safety by implementing identity verification processes, background checks, and thorough screening procedures for both babysitters and families.
However, it’s essential to do your research and use reputable platforms with a history of good reviews.
Always follow safety guidelines, such as meeting families in public places before accepting a job and ensuring that someone knows where you are and when you expect to return home.
Does a 12-year-old need a nanny?
Whether a 12-year-old needs a nanny depends on the family’s specific needs and circumstances.
Some families may require after-school care, supervision during school holidays, or support with transportation and extracurricular activities.
Others may feel comfortable leaving their 12-year-old unsupervised for short periods. Ultimately, it’s up to the parents to decide what level of care and supervision is appropriate for their child.
Babysitting for 13-Year-Olds: Final Thoughts
In conclusion, finding babysitting jobs for 13-year-olds may seem challenging, but with the right approach and resources, you can kickstart your babysitting career.
Remember to focus on responsibility, safety, and building a good reputation.
Don’t forget that babysitting can be a fun and rewarding experience that allows you to bond with kids while earning extra cash.
Keep honing your skills and exploring opportunities, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful babysitter. Good luck on your babysitting journey!
