Children pick up on someone who doesn't like them. You can't fool them.

Originally Posted by iwmonn:

Hmmmm... I really get the feeling you should be letting the parents know TONIGHT that you can't continue to watch their children. I imagine if they read the statement you wrote, they would probably change their plans anyways. Even if these kids were angelic, it is not in their best interest (or yours for that matter) for you to be responsible for them. I imagine in a few years, you may change your feelings a bit, and babysitting will come easier for you. I'm assuming you are pretty young yourself (physically and emotionally also) and you have a lot to learn about how to deal with young minds. (My feeling is that bribery is NOT the way.. but that isn't what my post is about ;))
If you need to find something to earn some spending money for the summer look into yard maintenance or maybe start a small errand-running business. Just some ideas for you.
Also, If I were you I would definately think twice about the job you accepted from the neighbor too.

Hey. No you didn't sound harsh at all. :) But yeah, I really should tell them, but they go to my church and the girls youth group is supposed to be there to babysit if anyone needs them. So it's kinda like our job... but I guess they could call one of the other girls.

Originally Posted by :
I'm really sorry if I come off sounding harsh hon, but just re-read your opening sentence again, then think about why these kids may be acting up towards you.... Kids are NOT stupid. they probably know exactly how you feel about them and are probably just as unhappy having you there as you are to be there...... Good luck !

Well it's not like I act like I don't like them when I'm around them... I try to act like I'm having fun because I don't want them to think I don't like them. Maybe I'm not doing a very good job at it... lol.

But this is the last year I will have to babysit to make money. I will turn 15 in Sept. and I can get a summer job.

Any parent who doesn't have a child potty trained by the time they enter kindergarden isn't a good parent...
I'm sure the behavior you describe is the reason the parents WANT TO GET AWAY!
I don't understand why people cannot discipline their children.... are you f***ing kidding me??? If I or ANYONE I know acted like that as children, we would have been spanked, grounded, have toys taken away, time outs, etc. It wouldn't have been pretty. And I'm only 24, so we aren't talkin "back in the day" kind of stuff either.
Those kids have no respect for anyone, and probably won't and it is the parents fault for not doing their job.
Bumpsetspike, I would hate those kids too... In fact, I cringe when we are in public places and kids misbehave to an extreme degree and the parents just ignore it... Kids like that are the reason that I don't think I want kids.
I don't know if you should or shouldn't be a babysitter - but definitely don't get near kids like that. Babysitting can be very fun with kids who mind and have learned respect and consequences.

BumpSetSpike

Im glad they were good for you! I dont think my ways are really bribery, as they are rewards for good behavior. Kids love attention, give it to them! You are only there for a few hours, so make it fun for them and you.

If you have to babysit again I suggest bring a box of brownie mix and make it together with the children. Decide who does what before you start so there isnt anything to argue about. Bring a game to play while the brownies are baking. Or bring sidewalk chalk (99 cents at the dollar store) they can make pictures on the patio. There are soooo many fun things. If you need more ideas PM me, I have lots.

Don't have time to read everything, so just replying to the OP. If you can't stand kids, you are DEFINATELY picking the wrong job. Moreover...kids know when they're not wanted/liked. Maybe they're spawns of satan. Maybe they just know you don't like them and the feeling's mutual? Definately find another line of work. Best for you, and for them.