Frankfort Police Department prepares middle schoolers to become babysitters

The students will be learning about basic child care, what do in case of emergencies, ways to recognize abuse and basic CPR. The classes started four years ago when FPD Office Manager Charity Keller’s daughter began babysitting but did not have the proper knowledge for the role.

“It turns out lots of parents feel that way,” Keller said. “It has kind of blossomed and grown every year, and I have the support of the local CPS (Child Protective Services) here. They put me in touch with a grant that has helped me out.”

The babysitting program now runs once a year near the end of October. The first class for this session was conducted Wednesday. Around 15 students gathered to hear from local registered nurse Daisy Shoemaker.

Shoemaker went over the basics of child care, how to hold an infant, change a diaper, burp and feed. While there was some initial nervous laughter and apprehension, the students settled into their lessons.

“I think the kids enjoy it,” Keller said. “I think the hands-on part is what they like more than anything.”

Frankfort Middle School student Michelle Garza took the class when she was in sixth grade. A year after taking the class, she said her confidence has increased when it comes to child care.

“I didn’t take care of children that much, I wasn’t a big fan,” Garza said. “After I took the babysitting class, I feel a lot better.”

Garza was encouraged to take the class after caring for her sister’s children. Now she even cares for children at her church.

“The most valuable thing that we had was the CPR lesson because when you are taking care of a child, anything can happen, even when you are being very cautious,” Garza said.

Next week students will hear from a CPS representative on ways to identify the abuse of a child in their care. In a later session, they will also hear from local police officers and firefighters on how to care for the homes they are in during babysitting.

“It is important because you are putting these kids in charge of your children and they are kids themselves and unsure sometimes,” Keller said. “I just want to give them all the tools that I feel like would help them become better babysitters. If they would be put a more difficult situation, they would know what to do. Give them as much knowledge and experience as I can.”

Garza said her perspective on childcare and babysitting has changed as a result of taking this course. She said she understands the responsibility of babysitting more than she did before. Because the class was taught in a relaxed atmosphere, she said it was easier for her to learn.

“I liked the way that they taught,” she said. “They didn’t force it and they made it fun.”

Even though classes are only held once a year, Keller said anyone interested can contact her. As classes get closer, information about enrolling can be found on the city’s website and social media. Interested students can be put on a waiting list.