The Kingfisher County OSU Extension Office hosted its annual Babysitting Workshop on Wednesday, May 27, at the Kingfisher County Fairgrounds Exhibit Building.
This year’s workshop was the largest class the program has hosted, with 24 boys and girls ages 11 and older participating to learn more about babysitting and childcare responsibilities.
Participants received hands-on instruction in child development, including the ages and stages of children, appropriate caregiving techniques, safety concerns, and ways to keep children engaged and entertained. Students also learned practical skills such as diaper changing, preparing healthy snacks and simple meals, and understanding food allergies and diabetes awareness.
The workshop also focused heavily on emergency preparedness and first aid training. Participants practiced CPR for adults, children, and infants, learned how to use an AED, perform the Heimlich maneuver, apply a tourniquet, and administer EpiPens, inhalers, and Narcan.
Students also explored the business side of babysitting, helping equip them with the knowledge and confidence needed to become safe, responsible babysitters in their communities.
Parents with children interested in learning more about babysitting are encouraged to watch for registration information next May and sign them up for the free workshop.
Photos by AAK Maitland Woody.
