this post was submitted on 16 Nov 2023
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Asklemmy
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Hello. Proud parent of a 2.5 year old and a 6 month old here.
At 13 months, that kid is probably getting the hang of walking. They very well might not stop exploring for the entire time, other than a 1-2 hour nap or bedtime depending on what time you’re babysitting.
Ask the parents about nap/bedtime schedule, feeding schedule (they are likely still on a mix of bottle/milk plus food, though, maybe not), and if screen time is allowed. I’d imagine they’ll give you all that info without you having to ask, but you never know.
The key is to be aware. At 13 months, they might try to get into every drawer, cabinet, dog bowl, garbage bin, etc. they can find. They will also head straight toward any stairs you might have. Don’t let that kid out of your sight. Other than constantly trying to seek out danger, it shouldn’t be all bad.
You got it just right, she's close to walking but mostly navigates by holding onto things and walking.
Some great thoughts here, thanks! (Though I suppose I will ask about screentime. My plan was to trick her into enjoying hockey but I suppose permission would be polite.)
Be ready with your camera in case she takes her first unassisted steps then. You may get lucky and be the one who's there for it.
Also, you might want to bring ear plugs. My kid (same age) has had a rough day with teething and gas and the screaming gets a bit much. You have to watch them way more closely with earplugs in, but it might just save your sanity.
If you hope they won't do something (immediately crawl off, grab something specific, sneeze a mouthful of food in your face, reach their hand into the poop you're cleaning off them) they're totally gonna do it. As soon as it's physically possible.
Basically as long as you keep her from getting hurt or mentally scarred you're doing great, and as long as you pay attention you can manage that.
It's going to mean a lot to them to have a few hours together without a baby around. Try to enjoy it. They grow so quickly, by the time you get a chance to do it again it'll be completely different.
Ooooh, really good point on the camera. I'll be the best babysitter ever if I can get those first steps on camera.
And you're fully right on it being totally different. Months ago I babysat her but she couldn't really move around on her own so while a bit scary wasn't "be in your guard for escape attempts" daunting.
I'm excited though!
Consider mom and dad want to be there for first steps and might be happier if you kept quiet, lol
Best baby sitter ever probably does not film and never mentions any unassisted steps happened. Mom and Dad have been slaves to this kid for over a year and deserve to be there for first milestones (or at least believe they were there). Best babysitter swoops in and picks up the kid to prevent actual first steps so that way they don't happen and no one has to lie
Good points.
I forgot about the headlong charges at stairs.