School is out and the days are longer, so whether you are home with the kids or working from an office, these gorgeous days beg for extra helping hands, to wear them out, get them school-ready, and challenge them in their favorite interests.
Considering a majority of summer sitters are college-age, these kids provide a wealth of talent (and energy) worth exploring. Even if it’s to give your regular nanny a break in her day.
Here’s 6 ways to make the most of a summer sitter.
- A Coach
Chasing after every fly ball in the yard can get exhausting, for us parent-types. But, if you hire a sitter who shares a love for a sport, the constant practicing doesn’t seem like work.. Look for a sitter who shares similar interests with your child and will enjoy the outdoors as much as they do. - A Tutor
Just like you sneak extra veggies onto their plate, having a sitter that can “sneak” a math problem or two can be a fantastic summer resource. Babysitters who double as tutors can also be hired to spend 1 to 2 hours a week focusing primarily on school prep. Look for someone who your child might consider “cool” and can show him that his hardest subject can be “popular” too. - A Second Set of Hands
Summer according to Moms: Tons of activities and numerous kids. Two extra hands is all it takes for the chaos to become well, less chaotic. A summer activity driver, an errand runner, a stay-home-with a sleeping-kid sitter, or just someone who can match your kids’ energy at 3pm on a long, hot day of summer! Even help with a beach outing could be worth every penny. - A Role Model
College sitters can be great mentors. Suddenly, going to school and doing homework doesn’t seem so bad because your children now want to be just like their awesome sitter. So now your date night can double as a “school is cool” public service announcement. - A Camp-like Experience
Gather some families and hire a sitter who can plan and host a few hours of summer fun for your kids throughout the week. Look for a teacher on summer vacation or college sitter majoring in education, so they have familiarity with curriculum planning. Also consider a person’s creativity and extra-curricular interests to tap into their experience and interests. - A Break (For You!)
Whether it’s an appointment to get your hair cut, go to the gym or eat a sandwich in peace and quiet, apart-time babysitter can provide some well-deserved alone time. Take a break and enjoy some summer fun of your own. And if you want to rekindle that summer romance, invite your spouse to tag along.
Written by Stephanie St. Martin, Care.com Contributor
