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  • American Red Cross Babysitting Basics

    The Babysitting Basics course from the American Red Cross gives those ages 11 and older a foundation on which to build their babysitting business. Designed for new babysitters, this course delivers information clearly, concisely and interactively – and it's the perfect way for young people to learn about all of the responsibilities that come with the job.

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    In The Course

    Created by industry-leading experts, the American Red Cross' Babysitting Basics class covers a wide range of information that can help new babysitters gain the skills and confidence needed to care for infants and children. The course takes approximately 4 hours to complete and includes information on:

    • How to care for infants and children
    • What to do in an emergency and how to stay safe
    • Choosing activities that are age appropriate
    • Recognizing, understanding and handling certain behaviors
    • Starting your babysitting business

    The Babysitting Basics course culminates with a final exam. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a printable certificate that they can share with potential employers.

    First Aid, CPR & AED Training

    Available as a complement to the Red Cross' Babysitting Basics class are our First Aid training and CPR/AED certification courses. These classes allow you to gain the skills needed to provide first aid care, administer CPR and use an AED correctly. Successful completion of these courses gives you a two-year certification and access to refresher materials – so you can test your skills and refresh your memory at any time during your certification period.

    Why Train With the Red Cross

    Red Cross CPR Training Saves Lives

    Reid Heiser, Life Saver
    One week after 17-year-old Reid completed his Red Cross CPR training, he needed to use it. In November 2011, Reid saved the life of Jim Hammer after he collapsed at the recreation center where Reid worked. Now friends, they share their story.

    Red Cross training matters
    For more than a century, we've prepared people to respond to emergencies of all sizes - from the everyday to the large disaster. Join the millions we train every year and learn the skills that can save a life.

    "Without my friend's training, I would not be here"
    - Watch Bre Dumke's Story

    "The first 7 minutes are critical"
    - Watch More

    Red Cross certification of completion on a tablet

    Certification Made Simple. Fast. Easy. Digital.

    The American Red Cross makes babysitting training and certification fast, simple and easy. And with Red Cross Digital Certificates you'll get anytime, anywhere access to your certificates; plus the ability to print, share, and download them wherever and whenever you like. Digital certificates can be viewed, printed or shared online and can be accessed anytime through your Red Cross Account. Each certificate includes a unique ID and a QR code which meets employment requirements and allows employers to easily confirm your certificate is valid. Class participants and employers can visit https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/digital-certificate and enter the ID found on the digital certificate (or scan the QR code with a standard QR reader using a smart device) to access a copy of the valid certificate with student training information.

    Click here for instructions on accessing your certification online.