How can I make sure my daughter is safe as a babysitter?

Question

My 13 year old daughter just started babysitting for two families in the neighborhood, and her career is taking off quickly. She's gone from "my little girl" to someone that other parents rely on in just a week. Tonight she's babysitting for a family I've never even met, who live down the block and are friends with the other family (whom I have met). How can I make sure she's safe as a babysitter and encourage her independence? The change seems very fast for me but that may be because I wasn't expecting it to take off so quickly. Thanks!

Answer 1

Talk to her about personal safety, and sign her up for some self-defense classes.

Answer 2

Its nice that you are concerned for the safety of your daughter. I am 13 and a babysitter as well. Before I babysit both of my parents meet with them and visit their house. If you are really concerned you could do a background check and make sure she has a phone and im sure that will make you and her feel better.

Answer 3

She must be very mature too, because the other family ask her to watch there kids, my daughter who is 17 and has been babysitting for alot of people since she was 13 too..... Just ask her if they are leaving her numbers where they can be reached, make sure she has a phone. She is growing up and i know its very hard sometimes to let go but you got to, and remember you are the one who made her the responsible teen that she is today