First aid courses and safety courses are paramount to child safety. There are a large number of organisations offering first aid training around Australia.
From managing minor bumps and scratches, to unexpected accidents, to emergencies - it's important for all carers to possess basic skills and knowledge of first aid for babies and children.
There are many things that make a great nanny or babysitter - but having first aid skills are the perfect foundation for success.
Do Babysitters and Nannies Need First Aid Qualifications?
A first aid course or qualification is not legally required for a babysitter. It is, however, strongly recommended.
If a babysitter or nanny has first aid training it will help them handle any situation that arises.
Some roles working with children may require additional training or certification. For example children with allergies or special needs.
Parents will also be more likely to select carers with first aid and safety qualifications.
What are the Basic First Aid Skills a Babysitter Needs?
When working with children some of the first aid skills to cover are:
- Emergency response steps
- Recognising signs of illness
- Managing fevers
- Managing allergies and anaphylaxis
- Managing respiratory distress, including asthma and croup
- Managing choking and airway obstruction
- CPR for babies and children
- Safe sleeping practices and SIDS prevention
- Controlling bleeding
- Treating rashes and burns
- Handling fractures, sprains and strains
- Managing head injury
- Treating poisoning, bites and stings
- Managing seizures and convulsions
- Managing Drowning
- Treating Shock
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What are Essential Safety and Supervision Skills for Babysitters?
- Water safety - bath time
- Home safety - in the kitchen with hot drinks, oven and stovetop
- Pedestrian and road safety - crossing roads
- Swimming pool safety
How to Choose the Best First Aid Course for Babysitters or Childcare?
When selecting a course check that it
- is nationally recognised - this means that it meets the standards set by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA)
- is delivered by a Registered Training Organisation
- leads to a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment - this gives you a document that verifies your competency
- has a hands-on, practical component
What is the Best First Aid Course for Working with Babies and Children?
There are a range of first aid courses offered in Australia.
One course, however, has been specifically designed for the education and childcare sector.
This course is called
- Provide First Aid in an Education and Care Setting HLTAID012
How Long Does it Take to Complete a First Aid Course for Childcare?
It depends on the training organisation - but most courses are 1 day (6-7 hours) in person.
Where Can I Find First Aid Courses?
Below are several reputable, quality courses for babysitters, nannies and parents.
St John First Aid
St John Ambulance Australia has over 130 years of experience as the leading provider of first aid training with nearly 500,000 participants annually. Both the public and custom-designed courses offered are well designed to meet changing needs.
Red Cross
Australian Red Cross is committed to building safe, healthy and productive communities and workplaces through the provision of nationally recognised and accredited physical first aid training and non accredited mental health training courses.
Kidsafe
Kidsafe is an independent, non-profit, charitable foundation dedicated to the prevention of unintentional death and injury to children. Kidsafe conducts a range of programs, develops resources and provides information to raise awareness of child safety issues and injury prevention throughout the community.
Along with first aid training, remember to arrange your Working with Children Check.
Taking a first aid course is one of the most valuable steps a babysitter or nanny can take. It gives carers the confidence to respond in an emergency and gives parents peace of mind.
Whether you're just starting out to be a babysitter or looking to refresh your skills, first aid training is a smart investment in every child’s safety and in your career.
