Safe Sitter class at the Y

Some states have an age requirement that must be met before children are left alone at home. Wyoming has no such age requirement but most child experts feel a child should be 11 to 12 years old before they are left alone at the house.

The first job for many children is babysitting, often watching after younger family members. The Sheridan County YMCA facilitates the Safe Sitter program to better prepare children to care for those they watch over. 

YMCA Executive Director Liz Cassiday said the program covers a wide range of subjects including safety, child care, entertainment and more. 

L. Cassiday 

A nationally recognized program, Safe Sitter teaches students tips to manage behavior that will help them stay in control of themselves and the children in their care. Students also learn the ages and stages of child development, as well as practice diapering. The course prepares students to handle first aid situations by teaching skills such as choking rescue and CPR. Students also learn a system to help them assess and respond to injuries and illnesses.

For those students who wish to take sitting more seriously, Safe Sitter also teaches kids the ability to screen jobs, discuss fees, and greet employers.

If parents have a budding entrepreneur or if kids would just like to be better prepared to care for family members, a class is being offered at the YMCA.

L. Cassiday 

To learn more, contact the Sheridan County YMCA at 307- 674-7488.