SGMC Health is teaming up with the Valdosta-Lowndes County YMCA to present the Safe Sitter® babysitting course tailored for middle school students. This collaborative effort aims to equip young teens with essential life skills crucial for babysitting, staying home alone, and caring for younger siblings.

Safe Sitter®, a nationally recognized nonprofit organization, specializes in empowering middle school students with critical safety and emergency response skills. The comprehensive one-day course incorporates medically accurate training, including hands-on practice in choking rescue and CPR principles, ensuring graduates are equipped to respond effectively during emergencies.

To promote youth development and caregiving proficiency, SGMC Health will host a series of 6 classes throughout May, June, and July. Certified Safe Sitter instructors from the YMCA will lead each session, limited to 20 students per class at $50 per participant.

"The skills gained from this program are invaluable for our community's young teenagers," shared Kara Hope Hanson, Marketing Manager at SGMC Health. “Students leave with enhanced confidence and readiness to handle emergencies, benefiting both their personal growth and their ability to responsibly care for others.”

In addition to safety fundamentals, students enrolled in the Safe Sitter® course will receive guidance on safely and effectively promoting their babysitting services.

Space is limited, and advance registration is required. Instructional workbooks, breakfast, and lunch are included in the cost of the program.

To learn more and register, visit sgmc.org/safesitter.