Be on the Alert for Potential Pitfalls

Here are the four most common problems—and tips to help you and your teen handle them.

Q: What do you do about difficult or uncontrollable kids?

Solution: “You can help prepare your teen by explaining how children behave at different ages, and tactics to try,” says Hawley. For instance, try distraction with a doll, or a new game for a 1-year-old.”

Q: What happens if the parents don’t pay at the end of the evening?

Solution: “Discuss the amount and time of payment with clients ahead of time,” says Wilson. And then, if the parents don’t pay, build your teen’s confidence so she’ll feel comfortable asserting herself.

Q: What happens if the parents come home drunk and they were supposed to drive your teen home?

Solution: “The babysitter’s parents should arrange to pick up their teens from every babysitting [job],” Wilson says.

Q: What should your teen do if the parents aren’t home on time?

Solution: Have your teen call his clients to see when they do expect to be home and relieve your teen if you feel it’s too late. If they’re consistently late, have your teen write them off her list.