Take Me Out to the Ball Game

I've noticed with babysitting that I have several techniques that I use... most of them do work, and some of them didn't go over as well as I wanted them to.

I use a method called: 3 Strikes. I have a strong appreciation for good behavior, and I don't like it when the children I am keeping don't behave... which is why I do this. I prefer to reward good behavior, and make sure children learn from bad behavior. It's simple.

The 1st time they act out, they get 1 strike.

The 2nd time they act out, they get 2 strikes.

The 3rd time they act out, they get 3 strikes. And then they are out completely. Good behavior can resulting in earning another chance/strike.

Wednesday night, I may call a child down 2 times... then I might say, "You have one more chance."

It works. And there is a song that goes with it. And believe me--I'll sing it if I have to. :)

"Take me out to the ball game, Take me out with the crowd. Buy me some peanuts and cracker jack,

I don't care if I never get back, Let me root, root, root for the home team, If they don't win it's a shame.

For it's one, two, three strikes, you're out, at the old ball game."