Good friends of mine would like a reprieve so they can have their anniversary dinner. I’ve been a camp counsellor and was pretty good at it but those kids were all 6 years old, this one is 13 months old. Adorable kid but I figure maybe some folks here might have good ideas/thoughts/suggestions/crass jokes?

  • orangeNgreen@lemmy.worldEnglish
    251·
    1 year ago

    Hello. Proud parent of a 2.5 year old and a 6 month old here.

    At 13 months, that kid is probably getting the hang of walking. They very well might not stop exploring for the entire time, other than a 1-2 hour nap or bedtime depending on what time you’re babysitting.

    Ask the parents about nap/bedtime schedule, feeding schedule (they are likely still on a mix of bottle/milk plus food, though, maybe not), and if screen time is allowed. I’d imagine they’ll give you all that info without you having to ask, but you never know.

    The key is to be aware. At 13 months, they might try to get into every drawer, cabinet, dog bowl, garbage bin, etc. they can find. They will also head straight toward any stairs you might have. Don’t let that kid out of your sight. Other than constantly trying to seek out danger, it shouldn’t be all bad.

    • Lauchs@lemmy.worldOP
      8·
      1 year ago

      You got it just right, she’s close to walking but mostly navigates by holding onto things and walking.

      Some great thoughts here, thanks! (Though I suppose I will ask about screentime. My plan was to trick her into enjoying hockey but I suppose permission would be polite.)

      • constantokra@lemmy.one
        10·
        1 year ago

        Be ready with your camera in case she takes her first unassisted steps then. You may get lucky and be the one who’s there for it.

        Also, you might want to bring ear plugs. My kid (same age) has had a rough day with teething and gas and the screaming gets a bit much. You have to watch them way more closely with earplugs in, but it might just save your sanity.

        If you hope they won’t do something (immediately crawl off, grab something specific, sneeze a mouthful of food in your face, reach their hand into the poop you’re cleaning off them) they’re totally gonna do it. As soon as it’s physically possible.

        Basically as long as you keep her from getting hurt or mentally scarred you’re doing great, and as long as you pay attention you can manage that.

        It’s going to mean a lot to them to have a few hours together without a baby around. Try to enjoy it. They grow so quickly, by the time you get a chance to do it again it’ll be completely different.