I started sitting for 2 boys today. I just met their mother for the first time today, we met through a mutual friend, when she needed a sitter (RIGHT away or she was going to lose her job) our mutual friend gave her my number. I only just met her today, and started watching the boys today. The boys are 4 and 6.

The problem I am having is it seems like these boys... I can't describe it... they don't listen, they fight each other and my 5 year old daughter constantly so far, they fight over toys/books/ect the 4 year old YELLS at ME with SO much additude!!


The problem I am having is that I don't know their mother well yet, I don't know her parenting style, I don't know what she does normally for them, so I have NO idea WHAT I should be allowing, not allowing, time outs, discapline, or WHAT. You know?


Of course I am going to speak to her about it today when she comes home from work.

But do any of you have advise for what to do about it today?

Post the rules of YOUR house.

The behavior you expect,the respect that is paramount.

And enforce those rules.

You would be surprised what boundaries kids will respect.. mammy might allow them to jump,bite,and generally run riot in their house,but this is YOUR house,YOUR rules.

A sticker chart on the fridge might help,if everyone behaves they can get a treat at the end of the day or 3 days.. something simple like a dvd and something nice to eat,or a picnic on the floor.

Either way,don't let it get out of control or you will lose credibility,be firm. Show no fear.

That's a great idea red thank you. No worries about no fear :P thanks hon ill get to work on that :)

Good luck with the kids jennie

Isn't it great when someone else's kids are at your house and have no respect. Not to mention any idea of what respect is. You definitely need to talk to her. Don't worry about hurting her feelings. After all she needs you at this point. Tell her what happened, your concerns, and what methods she uses for discipline. You have to keep in mind these kids are around your little girl. If they can't change and follow your rules then do you want her to have this influence? I would tell the mother you are on a trial run and if they can't behave to your standards she may need to find someone else.
Ask your friend who watched her kids before you and why she needs a new sitter. Could this be why?

Well before they were in daycare. Its only until school starts again next month. But she was paying 1400 a month for her kids at the daycare! That's more than she is making in a month right now.

Wow! I don't understand why daycares cost so much money! Geesh! Do you know if her job has a daycare in it?

No her job doesn't have one. Which is stupid.

I talked to her when she got home an hour ago and all is well :) we pretty much see eye to eye on discapline.

Unlike the other 2 children I babysit (2 month old and 2 year old) I already posted on that issue. And I seriously suspect abuse there... :(

Well that's great that you guys agree.

It's a shame how people abuse their young children. They don't have to be parents. There are other options to choose rather than to beat on your kids. That's kind of stuff makes me soooooooo mad! And I don't even have kids!