I think it really depends on the 13 year old. I let my 13 year old cousin watch my daughter. When she'd stay the night my little cousin watched her better than her mother did. But I wouldn't let my 13 year old neighbor baby sit for me. My cousin is more mature and responisble than my neighbor. go with your gut, if you feel fine letting the 13 yr old baby sit then let her. If you doubt her, then I'd try to find another baby sitter. It's all in who you can trust your child with. Same goes for someone in their 30's, ya know.

no have him or her go threw the red cross babysitting class. he or she should do just fine & as long as it not for long perids of time

the best babysitter I have ever had started watching my son when she was 13. My son was 3. Depends on how responsible she is. She is now 16 and my son adores her! She is still the best babysitter I have!!

That depends on how mature the 13 yr old is. My 13 yr old cousin, I would let her babysit. My 13 yr old sis in law, no way. I started babysitting at that age. If they are a trustworthy mature 13 yr old, then as long as there is someone within a few minutes to help if she should need it then I would say ok.

Yes

It really depends on the girls, some are more responsible and mature than others at that age. But, anyway do you think she can handle tantrums and toddler emergencies appropriately? Remember that toddlers are the ones with more danger of house hazards, Burns, Poisoning, drowning, choking, etc. Unless you are sure there's going to be another adult nearby as parents or friend to watch her or help her in an emergency, I recommend looking for someone else. Also, I know in some communities there's special babysitters classes for teen where she learn about first aid, etc. if possible send her to one, better safe than sorry.