HANCOCK, MI – A new generation of responsible, trained babysitters is ready to serve Copper Country families thanks to a partnership between the Copper Shores Community Health Foundation and the Copper Country Intermediate School District. On July 15-16, the CCISD Career and Technical (CTE) Center became a hands-on training center where 16 local students mastered everything from infant care techniques to emergency response procedures as part of the comprehensive Safe Sitters certification program.
The nationally recognized Safe Sitters program teaches students in grades 6-8 essential skills for providing safe, nurturing care to children. Participants received hands-on training in CPR, first aid, choking rescue procedures, and behavior management techniques. The curriculum also included instruction on starting a babysitting business, communicating effectively with parents, and handling emergency situations.
"This program fills a critical need in our community by preparing young people to be responsible, skilled caregivers," said Heather Johnson, CTE CNA Instructor for the CCISD and Safe Sitters certifed instructor. "The students were engaged and enthusiastic throughout both days. They practiced diapering, feeding, and comforting techniques with dolls, and learned vital safety skills that could one day save a life."
Students who completed the program received official Safe Sitters certification, along with a comprehensive babysitter's handbook and supply kit including safety equipment and resources. The 11-hour expanded program covered topics ranging from child development and age-appropriate activities to personal safety and professional childcare practices, like business management.
"Supporting programs like Safe Sitters aligns perfectly with our mission to positively influence a healthy community," said Sherri Storm, CTE Health Sciences Teaching Assistant for the CCISD and Safe Sitter certified instructor. "By investing in youth safety education, we are preparing responsible babysitters and building life skills that benefit our entire region."
There are plans to continue offering the Safe Sitters program based on demand. The next program is scheduled for early August is already at capacity, with additional dates during the school year to be announced. Parents seeking qualified babysitters can now connect with certified Safe Sitters graduates who have demonstrated competency in childcare and emergency response skills. Visit www.coppershores.org to learn more and see upcoming dates.