Babysitting basics course talks safety

The Washington County Extension Babysitting Basics Training Course began the week talking about being safe while babysitting on June 17. The goal of Babysitting Basics is to help youth become responsible babysitters.

Special guests filled the afternoon with their expertise. Washington Volunteer Firefighter, Joey Wallace, discussed with the babysitters about fire safety and how to use a fire extinguisher, which many had not had an opportunity to use prior to this class. Washington County Sheriff Deputies Nolan Burke and Tyler Kleese came to discuss being safe in the home. We talked about what to do if you answer the door, the telephone, what to do in case of severe weather, and what it sounds like to make an emergency call to the dispatch center. Classmates listened in while they 'called” in an emergency, pretending they were the babysitter and the child in their care fell off the swingset.

Day camp coordinator, Nicole Stoutner, discussed the babysitters' responsibilities and what parents are looking for in a quality babysitter. Heather Perez and her infant daughter, Kalina, shared what it takes to care for an infant. They looked at the essential items needed to care for an infant, and practiced holding and feeding baby Kalina.

Twenty-one students are participating in Babysitting Basics Course this week and will graduate on Friday. The five -ay course is sponsored by ISU Extension and Outreach-Washington County. This course is offered each year for youth who have completed fifth grade. Room is still available for the second Babysitting Basics course being offered this year Aug. 5-9. Contact the Washington County Extension Office for more information at 319-653-4811. Follow 'Washington County 4H-Iowa” on Facebook for up-to-date information on youth programs and 4H events.