Do you have an older kid looking to start a babysitting business this summer? How do you know if he or she is really ready for the responsibility of watching over other people’s kids?

You can help your young entrepreneur prepare for paying babysitting jobs by letting them practice on their little siblings or your friend’s kids. Start off by asking them to watch children while you’re still around–while you’re doing yardwork or entertaining friends in the other room.

The next step in preparing to babysit is to enroll your older child in a babysitting class. Classes are offered by the Red Cross and at local St. Louis hospitals. Most classes are offered for kids 11 to 15 years old and cost from $24 to $72.

Babysitting classes offer training in first aid, childcare, safety, leadership skills and how to play with small children. Some classes even offer CPR training. Professional training will not only make your tween or teen a more confidant babysitter, it will help convince a neighborhood family to hire him or her.

The Red Cross has helpful pdf handouts for aspiring babysitters listed on their website. You can download a family information card, a template for a babysitter’s resume, business cards, a safety checklist and a really helpful booklet of games and activities to play with children.

St. Louis Red Cross offers classes at various locations around the metro area. Saturday classes are $47 and last 6 hours with a lunch break.

St. John’s Mercy offers a Sitter’s Skills class at their main location in Town and Country and also at their satillite care centers. The class costs $25 and lasts 3 hours. Evening classes are available.

Children’s Hospital offers classes in community centers and at the Magic house. Classes cost $24 and have a snack break.