"What if I don't feel comfortable with the family I'm sitting for?"

You should never put yourself in a situation you're uncomfortable with. Every sitter and family will not be a perfect match.  You will find your sitting events will be more enjoyable if you work to find families that match your skill set.

"What if a family doesn't tip me at the end of the night?"

Tips are encouraged but not necessary. if a family doesn't tip you, don't get discouraged as some families and others won't. It's not necessarily an indication that you did a poor job. Remember to always do the best job possible and conduct yourself in a professional manner whether you receive gratuity or not.

"What do you do when you are working for a family who has different beliefs than you?"

Having the job of "nanny" or "babysitter" and getting to be a part of another family's lives can be an absolute blessing.  Every family has a different personality and you as a sitter will need to make sure you will be happy working in that type of family.  Having different beliefs than a family does not necessarily mean you are not a great fit for that family but you will have to actively make the choice to keep your activities and interactions with the children in line with exactly what those parents are wanting.  Drastic differences in beliefs could lead to unhappiness on both sides so it is always good to keep evaluating whether or not you are a great fit for that specific family.

"How do you handle babysitting children with a big age and developmental difference?"

Having an older and younger child together at a babysitting job can be a blessing because you will have an automatic helper!  Including both children in each activity can sometimes take creativity but it is not impossible.  An older sibling can feed their stuffed animals while you are feeding their baby brother.  A toddler can do well supervised, simplified versions of craft projects that a Kindergartener might be doing.  Any younger child will want to be included in what the "big kids" are doing and this is a great way for little ones to make steps in their development and for older kids to be great role models.  As always, enjoy your Safe Babysitting Jobs!

“What do I do if I simply can’t get the kids I’m watching to behave?”

First, don’t yell. Yelling or showing anger will only upset the children and add to the already out of hand emotions. As a professional sitter, you can’t let your temper get the best of you. Use a calm voice and try not to act as a disciplinarian. Reward good behavior to make your time with the children more enjoyable and exciting. The children should look forward to spending time with you as you should with them. It’s important for you to take the lead and not add stress to the situation.

“What do I do if my child is afraid of the dark and won’t go to sleep?”

Don’t try to downplay his or her fear.  It’s very real to the child and should be treated seriously. It can make it last longer and worse. The child needs to feel they can trust you.  Be supportive: give them some kind of protection – a blanket, a favorite superhero or toy.  You can also leave a small bed side light on or give the child a flashlight to use.  Check out the room for them and reassure them that it is safe.  It’s best to be as helpful and calm as you can.

Do you have a question for our "Ask Vicky" column?  Email submissions to events@seekingsitters.com.