In the middle years, many children learn babysitting skills by being taken care of by an older sister or brother or by helping their parents care for younger siblings.
At some point, they may express an interest in becoming a sitter; and by the age of 13 or so, they may be ready to do so.
Schools and organizations such as the YMCA or local hospitals often provide courses in babysitting.
However, nothing can compare to experience; preferably under the observation of an adult. Emergencies can still happen, even when you leave your child alone with the most experienced babysitter.
Dr. Corinn Cross shares advice on training your older child to be a the kind of babysitter you would want, as well as how to find a good babysitter for your little ones that you can completely trust.