Jul 13, 2010 By Herald Standard Staff 2 min read

The Red Cross is offering its Babysitter’s Training Course as a means for babysitters to learn the proper childcare techniques and skills. While babysitting can offer teens an enjoyable way to earn money, the job also comes with responsibilities and demands. Since safety is the most essential aspect of childcare, the American Red Cross Southwestern Pennsylvania Chapter offers the course as a way to prepare babysitters for their role. The next available class will be held from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. July 24 at the downtown Pittsburgh Red Cross building, 225 Boulevard of the Allies. Classes also will be held there Aug. 7 and Oct. 2. A class also will be held from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Red Cross Washington office, 524 E. Maiden St.

During the Babysitter’s Training Course, students gain practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Students will learn how to respond to emergencies and illnesses with first aid and rescue breathing, as well as learn proper decision-making and problem-solving techniques.

The course is open to individuals ages11 and older. Upon completion of the course, students receive Red Cross Babysitter’s Training certification, as well as babysitting tools, such as an Emergency Reference Guide, an activity booklet with child-appropriate games and a Babysitter’s Handbook. The course also includes marketing tips to help students find babysitting jobs.

There is a fee for classes. To register, go online to swpa.redcross.org or call 1-888-217-9599.

For additional information about the Babysitter’s Training course, or to find the link for free downloads of American Red Cross materials for babysitters, go online to swpa.redcross.org.