Older children have been babysitting their siblings for generations. However, it’s a decision that each family needs to make for itself.
Of course, there are advantages to having a babysitter who knows your house rules and doesn’t need a ride home at the end of the night. On the other hand, keeping your family safe and happy is much more important than any minor convenience.
Are you thinking about putting one child in charge of their brothers and sisters? Consider these factors before you make your final decision.
Asking Your Child to Babysit Their Siblings
Maryland is currently the only state with a legal minimum age for babysitting. Given that individual children mature at very different rates, parents may be the most reliable judges as to when a child is ready.
Keep these tips in mind for a successful start:
Assess the situation
What’s your child’s track record when it comes to making decisions and following through on commitments? Do your children play well together or bicker much of the time? Plus, if children are close in age, it may be more difficult for one to exert authority.
Make it optional
Find out whether your child is interested in babysitting. The arrangement is unlikely to work without their cooperation.
Set limits
Any caregiving arrangement has to allow sufficient time for your child’s other activities, including school and socializing. Watch for any signs that they’re becoming overburdened.
Aim for Consensus
Discuss your plans with each family member. Ideally, the whole family will be on board. Be open to feedback and try to address any concerns.
Offer rewards
Some parents pay children to babysit, and others consider it part of the daily routine. If you’re not exchanging money, you can show your gratitude in other ways like special privileges or a gift.
Preparing Your Child to Babysit Their Siblings
The basic principles of babysitting apply whether you’re working with a family member or a professional service. Help your child to succeed in their new role.
Babysitting classes can help any caregiver feel more competent and confident. Check with your local universities, hospitals, or Red Cross.
Role play
You can also teach your children at home. Present them with scenarios like a stranger coming to the door or a fire starting in the kitchen. Let them show you how they’d respond.
Review expectations
The process may be more informal when you’re hiring your own child, but they need to take their responsibility seriously. Go over tasks like preparing meals and enforcing bedtimes.
Discuss discipline
Think about the consequences for serious misbehavior. You may want to deal with it when you get home or give your child the authority to enforce timeouts or withhold privileges.
Visitors can distract any babysitter from their duties. Let your child know your policy about guests. You may also want to put limits on phone calls and social media if you think your child will have trouble concentrating.
Provide emergency contacts
Ensure that your children know what to do in an emergency in case you’re not home. In addition to family fire drills, leave a list of resources they can contact, including a neighbor or relative who lives close by.
Taking care of siblings can be a useful way for older children to contribute to family life and learn valuable lessons about handling responsibility.
Related: Prepare for an Emergency
If your child seems mature and interacts well with their brothers and sisters, you may want to ask them to babysit on a trial basis.
How to Build Your Daughter’s Self-Esteem and Confidence
Children of both genders can suffer from self-esteem and self-confidence issues. However, girls tend to have challenges in these areas more often.
Research shows that girls are much more likely to develop eating disorders. They’re more likely to self-harm when stressed or depressed. Also, girls think about and attempt suicide at twice the rate of boys of the same age.
Help your daughter have a happy and emotionally healthy life:
Determine what she’s good at and help her develop that skill. Everyone feels good about themselves when they do something that they are good at. The better you are at it, the better you tend to feel. It makes you feel special and capable.
◦ As a parent, you already have a good idea of your daughter’s likes and strengths. From those items, identify something that your daughter loves to do and help her excel at it. Her confidence and self-esteem will soar.
Sign her up for team sports. Team sports have been shown to benefit girls by making them more confident. Team sports are a great way to learn new skills, make new friends, and build a social circle.
◦ Winning and learning how to handle defeat are both great for one’s self-esteem and confidence.
Ensure that your daughter understands that your love isn’t conditional. Every child needs to understand without a doubt that they are loved regardless of their choices or success.
Let her have her own style. Allow your daughter to have her own unique style. This includes things like music, hair, and clothing. While her choices might not match your own, finding an identity can create emotional stability. This foundation can be a wonderful footing for self-esteem and confidence.
Be a good example. Your daughter is always watching, even if she isn’t always listening. If she sees her mother judging her own body in a negative way, this sends a negative message. Fathers can also say inappropriate things about women that have a negative effect on girls.
◦ Consider how your behavior and comments are interpreted by your daughter.
Praise effort as well as outcomes. It’s not possible to be successful all of the time, so focus on praising effort. There are things your child simply won’t be good at. It’s counterproductive to be critical when your child did the best they could.
Teach assertiveness. Confidence and self-esteem largely come from the ability to influence and direct your own life. Without assertiveness, your child is subject to the whims of everyone around her. Assertiveness teaches your daughter than her opinion and wishes are important.
Encourage your daughter to try new things. New things can be a little scary. Overcoming that apprehension is a good thing. It also allows your daughter to add new activities, skills, and people to her life – all of which will boost her self-esteem and confidence.
Daughters often need a little more help and attention than boys do. If you’re having serious issues with your child, seek out professional assistance immediately. It’s worth the potential cost and discomfort.
What Can Albert Einstein Teach Your Kids About Confidence?
Psychologists often describe confidence as a person’s belief in their own ability to succeed. Naturally, every parent would like their child to be self-confident.
However, what seems to challenge parents the most is striking a healthy balance when encouraging confidence. They want to nurture their child’s confidence, but not let them get too arrogant.
Also, many parents have a challenge with self-confidence themselves.
The brilliant Albert Einstein said:
“If you can’t explain it to a six-year-old, you don’t understand it yourself.”
This is the key issue: many parents don’t know how to teach confidence to their kids.
Where do we draw a line?
Do we push our children to do more or give them all the space they need?
Can our kids learn how to be self-confident if we are not?
Answers to these questions might seem complicated, but the good news is – you don’t have to do it alone. There are plenty of resources to help you gain direction and clarity.
Even if you aren’t the most confident person in the world, you’ll do a lot for your child if you offer them a healthy, positive role model. It can be someone they know, a fictional character, or a celebrity. The famous physicist, Albert Einstein, is a perfect example.
Here’s what your child can learn about confidence from Einstein’s life and work:
It’s okay to have special interests. When he was nine, Einstein went to high school. There, he spent only 3–4 hours a week studying math and science. He was an odd kid, and eventually, he was asked to leave high school and he did it.
◦ His home was the only place where he could pursue his interests. Later in life, his special interests led him to win the Nobel Prize and become one of the most famous theoretical physicists in the world.
◦ Expose your child to a wide variety of activities and encourage them once they find something they love. Quirky hobbies can be particularly helpful for kids who don’t exactly fit in at school. The fact they are special at something will affect their confidence positively.
Imagination is the answer. Albert Einstein was the biggest advocate of imagination and creativity.
“Logic will get you from A to Z; imagination will get you everywhere.”
◦ Children have a particularly vivid imagination. Let them use it. Help them fantasize.
Encourage them to visualize they’ll be doing something important or fulfilling when they grow up.
◦ Their dreams might seem unrealistic at the moment, but don’t lower their expectations. It is important they are thinking about their goals.
Persistence needs to be encouraged. When he was just a child, Einstein was considered dyslexic and a slow learner. In fact, many adults thought he was stupid. Later on, he had problems in school. Then, he failed in his first attempt to enroll into Zurich Polytechnic University. During the war, he was targeted by Nazis.
◦ As you can see, obstacles and challenges were all around him. However, he persisted and achieved his goals.
◦ Your child will come across many setbacks in life too. Avoid the temptation to be their savior. Let them know you are here if they need you but give them a chance to figure things out on their own.
◦ To become confident, kids need to learn that it’s okay to take risks and fail. Let them try and get up once they fall. This will make them resilient and strong enough to deal with life’s challenges.
If you think Albert Einstein is a too-advanced example of confidence for children at a young age, substitute someone else that can send similar messages.
Diversity is paramount, optimism and imagination are potent weapons, perseverance and autonomy are highly valued, and confidence is a path to a happy life!
How To Raise a Confident Child
Confidence is about being comfortable with who you are, willing to give things a go – even if you’re not sure you’ll succeed – and trusting your own judgment. How can we raise a confident child in such a doubtful world? How can we instill this feeling in our children if it doesn’t come naturally to them? Or worse, if we aren’t confident ourselves? There’s no 100% guarantee that our child will grow up a confident man or woman, but there’s many tried and tested ways to cultivate it now.
Here are a few thoughts:
Accept your child’s starting point!
This is HUGE. Every child is different and each one will grow at different levels. Start where are.
Don’t force them into situations they aren’t comfortable with
Have you ever wanted your child to be ready for that thing or that occasion? Except, they just wouldn’t act the way you wanted them to? They just…weren’t, ya know, getting it? I know I’ve been guilty so many times of trying to rush a process. But that’s a problem. There’s truly a time for everything. Trying to put our kids in situations they aren’t ready for, is just a recipe for disaster and a surefire way to gut their confidence in half.
Take small steps to encourage confidence
Give compliments every day. Words of affirmation. Speak out with praise when your kiddo does the right thing and not just judgment or consequence when they do something bad wrong. Slow and steady. Taking time to be intentional each and every day is one of the best things we can do for our children. It creates a habit for us and is positive repetition and reinforcement for them.
Work out what their fear is
This may or may not be a challenge for you, but simply put, you must get to the root of most problems. FEAR. Whether or not they admit it, or are able to coherently vocalize it, there is a fear that exists. Find it and CRUSH IT FAST. We all know how crippling fear can be if left untouched. This doesn’t mean that you’ll be able to rid every fear or that you need to, but instead, learning how to channel that fear into motivation.
Keep praise special
I mentioned giving praise above as a great way to build confidence in small steps, but be careful with this one. I don’t mean you should praise everything your kid does. You know those parents. Just, don’t. Simply put, too much praise can lose its value with your child and you don’t want that.
Find their forte and allow it to flourish
The most wonderful thing we could do for our children is nurture them. Especially in areas where they excel. If you’re blessed to see a strong suit in your kiddo when their young, keep supporting it. Give them everything you possibly can to allow them to flourish in whatever area they’re showing special abilities.
Step back sometimes and let them have at it
Don’t rush ahead of them or dart to lend a helping hand. Certainly preaching to myself here! Step back and watch them. Allow them to take the lead. They just may surprise you!
What do you think? Did I miss any BIG points here? Share with us below!
Nothing refreshes the body and mind like a vacation. Whether you travel alone, with your family or extended family and close friends, it’s good to get away from the daily routine!
According to the American Society of Travel Agents, the 5 most budget-friendly travel destinations are:
Las Vegas, Nevada Orlando, Florida Branson, Missouri New Orleans, Louisiana Los Angeles, California
Here’s why these locales are so budget-friendly:
Las Vegas, Nevada
In Las Vegas, you can get away, explore tourist attractions and stay in one of the many awesome hotel resorts, all for very decent prices.
Because of the vast number of hotel rooms, nearly 150,000, says the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, many package deals to Vegas are available. A common travel package to Las Vegas includes flights, hotel, food credits, and a discount on show tickets.
Vegas casinos will clamor for your business. However, if you want your vacation to Las Vegas to be truly budget-friendly, avoiding the casinos may be wise. Alternatively, you can budget a certain amount of money to enjoy the experience of the casinos, and when you hit that limit, stop gambling.
With the many shows, amusement parks and great places to eat, there are plenty of non-gambling activities to do in Vegas as well.
Orlando, Florida
Because of Disney World, Epcot, Universal Studios, Sea World, and more, there’s no end to the package deals you’ll find for Orlando, Florida. Families converge in groups each year to this sunny Florida vacation mecca. Depending on the time of year you go, you’ll snag some incredible “freebie” days at Disney and Universal Studios. Since July and August are in the middle of hurricane season, not to mention the hottest months of the year in Florida, you may prefer to avoid Orlando during those months.
However, if you’re seeking a great travel deal to Orlando, you’ll find it in July and August.
Branson, Missouri
Second to Nashville, Tennessee, as the country music capital of the world, Branson offers a stay at a fine hotel, delicious meals, and entertaining shows at some astonishingly low prices.
Here’s an example for a family of 4: two nights hotel, 4 free admissions to a water park, 4 free show tickets to a Country Music Hall, 2 free large pizzas, and a $10 card to a local play spot, all for $298.60 for those vacationing in June, July or August.
Another real advantage of a Branson vacation is that the location is easily accessible from several U.S. states. You can take a car trip to get there in a day or so. A destination you might not have considered, Branson offers numerous budget-friendly opportunities.
What’s not to like about a visit to New Orleans? Steeped in history and some of the most charming old Southern homes you’ll ever lay eyes on, this city of jazz and art is an experience in and of itself. If you haven’t been to New Orleans and you like to save money, you’ll definitely want to place this destination on your travel wish list.
Beignets and chicory coffee can be had for a song at CafŽ du Monde. A walk around Jackson Square when the artists are displaying their wares is free!
For another real New Orleans experience, take a stroll down Bourbon Street after dark and just listen to the music wafting out to the streets. No charge. Of course, you’ll be drawn into one of the no-cover-charge lounges to enjoy the entertainment.
This destination surprises as one of the top five U.S. budget-friendly travel locations. With museums, Venice Beach, Chinatown, and all things Hollywood, consider a budget-friendly trip to LA. Allow time to enjoy the free sightseeing and inexpensive (but good) street food.
Exploring Universal City Walk or the Hollywood Walk of Fame won’t cost a dime, except for food and drink. Include in your budget what you’d like to spend on shopping and entertainment at these locations so you don’t get carried away and overspend.
Whatever your pleasure, you can afford to travel to one of these budget-friendly vacation destinations. With careful pre-planning coupled with a great package deal, you’re sure to live it up during your cost-saving vacation to one of these top 5 budget-friendly vacation destinations.
If you’re like many other world travelers, you’ve probably daydreamed about owning your own property in a foreign country. Buying property abroad isn’t an unreasonable dream. The proper planning and research goes a long way.
However, there are many potential pitfalls in buying real estate abroad, which would never occur to someone in the US. Every country has its own customs and laws to navigate. In some countries, it can be just as easy to purchase property as it is in the US. In others, it simply isn’t possible at all.
The purchase of your new home isn’t something to take lightly. There’s potentially a lot to lose if you run into any obstacles.
Review These 5 Tips To Get You Started With The Purchase of Foreign Real Estate:
Understand The Big Picture
Purchasing real estate in another country isn’t a minor undertaking. However, many US citizens have found numerous advantages to buying real estate and living overseas. It’s important to investigate all the laws associated with owning real estate in your target country. Laws vary tremendously!
Some countries have laws against foreign ownership of real estate. Other countries permit the ownership of land improvements or structures, but not ownership of the land itself.
Understand the economic picture of your potential new country. What’s likely to happen to your property values in the future?
Is your new country safe and politically stable? Do your research. The US state department website http://www.travel.state.gov can provide some insight.
Seek Assistance When Necessary
Consider hiring an attorney and a real estate broker in the country where you’re interested in purchasing the property.
Did you know you can purchase property in Malaysia, but when you sell the home the money from the sale must stay in the country? Experts would know and can help you with these technicalities.
You Might Have to Pay With Cash
Many countries lack financing options commonly available in the US. Even if you’re able to find a mortgage, you’ll likely be required to have a down payment of 40% or more.
Have you ever made a bribe? While bribes are frowned upon in the States, it can be a common business practice in other parts of the world. Your overseas real estate agent will know the ins and outs of bribes in your country of choice.
The good news is the bribes are usually quite low. The $100 range is common. It might only be needed to speed things along. In fact, bribes might actually be required!
Be Aware of Property Taxes
Property taxes are required in some countries and not in others. Some places even have a special tax rate for foreign property owners.
Titles aren’t as certain in many other countries. In the US, you get a title and purchase title insurance. The situation frequently isn’t as clean in other countries.
Ensure You’re Well Protected
In many other countries, a notary also does the equivalent of a title search, so use a notary if necessary.
What happens upon your death? Although it’s difficult to consider the worst, planning ahead in case of your passing is crucial. Again, every country will handle this unfortunate circumstance a little differently.
Does the local government take over your property? Do your heirs have any claims? It’s best to find out now so you can make the appropriate arrangements.
Owning real estate in a new country is an exciting endeavor. You can make it happen if you take the proper steps and proceed cautiously. These tips are only a starting point. The specifics for your country can be found with further research.
Take your time, hire the necessary experts, and do what you can to become an expert yourself. If you proceed in a methodical way, your new home could come into your life quicker than you anticipated!
