2007-02-01 10:54:54 · 19 answers · asked by vikki w 1 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Grade-Schooler
I think 12-14 is a good age for them to start staying alone/babysitting siblings but you might want to check with your own state laws, they may differ from one to another.
2007-02-01 11:01:47 · answer #1 · answered by Lynnie 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Do you mean babysit for hours on end? If so I would say at least 12 or 13. I started babysitting when I was 13, and it was fine. On the other hand if you mean just for 5 or ten minutes to run a quick errand, then it is up to you. I personally have a very mature 10 year old whom I have left with her 3 year old sister for 5 or 10 minutes. She knows the rules, and I am never more than a block or two away. It ends up being a very personal decision based on the maturity of the older child.
2007-02-01 17:32:45 · answer #2 · answered by Debbi S 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
13
2007-02-01 11:02:52 · answer #3 · answered by kclynn 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
This is very late but please don't. The kid you just described sounds exactly like me. I'm 15 and I've babysat my 11 year old sister and 9 year old brother since I was 8. I understand I have to be responsible but I sometimes don't even get time to myself to read or just some quiet. They drive me crazy and now I feel like I hate even touching children. On top of that, they mess up the house but my mom always believes they didn't because they're younger. I'm never paid or asked if I'd like to babysit or anything and I feel like it really feels awful. That's just my opinion. Thank you for reading.
2016-03-29 00:36:23 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I began babysitting my brothers when I was 12. It was only for 2-3 hours at time.
2007-02-01 14:25:06 · answer #5 · answered by tiapoquita 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
In most states the legal age is age 12, but you need to take into consideration the maturity of that child and what they are able to do and not do. I started baby sitting when I was 11
2007-02-01 11:03:53 · answer #6 · answered by trhwsh 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It does depend on the state that you reside in but most states are between 12 and 13. You should check your state laws before making this decision. Also keep in mind that your "babysitter" has to be mature enough to handle any problems that will arise if your not there.
2007-02-01 12:05:55 · answer #7 · answered by Maybe I am a smartass..so what 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
12 years old
2007-02-02 07:56:01 · answer #8 · answered by Library Eyes 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
12 is probably ok, depending on the maturity of the child (as long as it's a sibling).
2007-02-01 16:02:29 · answer #9 · answered by Smooth Criminal 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Someone that has proven to be responsible and mature. I guess I started babysitting when I was 15.
2007-02-01 10:58:14 · answer #10 · answered by electra_lutteur 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋