Q: I got a babysitting job! Would it be okay to bring a friend or a boyfriend?

Jenna:  I remember when I was old enough to babysit! I felt so grown up!  But it is a big responsibility, and although you may be 'technically' old enough, are you really ready?

There were times when the parents planned on staying out late.  I didn't want to be by myself when the kids went to sleep, so I would bring a friend along to keep me company. Definitely check with the parents to see if it's okay. Remember, it's their house rules, not yours. 

Also, if you do get the go-ahead to bring your friend along, there are some things to think about. Are you going to be "chick chatting" and forget about the kiddies? Are you going to split the pay with your friend?? Those are reminders about babysitting with a friend.

As for having your boyfriend accompany you, I can't answer that, unfortunately! It all depends on the people you are babysitting for and your parents too! 

Whatever you do, don't just allow a friend of boyfriend to show up 'unexpectedly'. You want the parents to trust you and your judgment. So before accepting that babysitting job, ask yourself if you are ready to take on the responsibility--alone! And, if not, and you do want a friend to keep you company late night, be mature enough to ask the people you are babysitting for if that's okay with them!

                                                                        Talk to you soon,

                                                                              Jenna

By Jenna Perette

Jenna Perette is SSW's twentysomething blogger. Formerly Wink webzine's "voice of tweens", she now gives us a glimpse into life as a "cougar cub". Read her fun blog, The Next JennaRation!