Help, about babysitting?

Question

OK, tomorrow I'm babysitting my mom's best friend's two kids who are about 6 and 9. I'm 14.

I've babysat other kids many times, but with these two it's different.

I always feel uncomfortable and tired around them. They have sooooo much energy, and I'm used to that, but they start screaming and everything. They think just because I'm their "cousin" I have no limitations. So how do I set these without being exactly mean?

And what can I do in my spare time, if I have no homework or computer?

Answer 1

Try to avert their attention to something they enjoy doing.  Suggest a game.  Suggest going outside in the backyard and letting them run a bit.  If they can't go outside, play a game of hide-and-seek.  Volunteer to be the hider and hide really well.  That way, they get to spend all their energy by trying to find you.  And you just get to sit there and listen to them "finding" you.  But, then again, if it takes longer than 5 minutes, you should try and make a break for it.  Because you don't want them to get hurt under the absence of supervision.  

Give them small tasks to do.  Fun, but gets them busy.  Send them on a scavenger hunt within their house.  

And set your boundaries.  Even if you have to be a bit tough.  Don't raise your voice or be physical, but very clearly state your authority.  Just because you're their cousin does not give them the right to walk over you.  You're older and have been placed as their temporary "guardian," so to speak.  And if you're having an extremely difficult time, and have had a difficult time in the past, make your concerns known to their mother.  "I enjoy babysitting your kids, but they tend to..."  Or... "I have some issues with..., do you have any suggestions on which to corral their energy into something else."  Since its your mom's best friend, you should be able to ask her some questions without any hard feelings.  Don't place her children in a bad light altogether, but simply voice your difficulty in whatever situation you're having a bit of a hard time.

AS for spare time, take a book.  Does she have t.v.? Watch a program that is age appropriate for the children you are watching (if they're not in bed yet.)  If you're not allowed to watch t.v. while watching her kids, clean.  Straighten up the kitchen or playroom. Living room. Etc.  Most families don't expect it, but its a nice gesture and makes you an even better babysitter.  You may not get paid extra, but it doesn't hurt.  

It may be difficult, but just remember, when you're uncomfortable, they'll be uncomfortable.   Go in there with confidence, your head up, and take charge.  Let them know whos boss. LOL. In a sense.  But more importantly, Just have fun!

Answer 2

read a book or if you have an ipod listen to it or play games on it

and play games with them like physical games to get rid of all of their energy