How do you know when someone is ready to babysit? When they turn twelve? Fourteen? How about after they complete a class that teaches what to expect and how to entertain different ages, as well as dressing and diapering, kitchen safety, CPR, First Aid, and fire extinguisher skills?

Teens 11 - 14 looking to begin babysitting careers can pick up these basics and more this summer at one of the two Babysitting Classes offered this summer by Northwest Fire District:

Wednesday and Thursday, June 23 & 24, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Station 30, 1520 W. Orange Grove Rd.

Wednesday and Thursday, July 21 & 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Station 38, 8475 N. Star Grass Rd

Students should bring a sack lunch each day. Students must be at least 11 years old. A registration fee of $20 must be paid in advance to reserve a spot.

For additional information, or to register, call Northwest Fire Life Safety Service at 887-1010.