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Teenagers are definitely old enough to hold a baby. Especially is there is an adult there to keep an eye on them.

My babysitter has teenage kids (14 and 16). They and their friends hold our 8 month old all the time. I was baby sitting at 12 so it isn't as big a deal. Of course, if they weren't responsible that may be a different story.

I would say that between 12 and 14 they are old enough to stand and hold a baby with an adult standing there. Under that I agree I would ask them to sit and hold the baby.

What about having them sit on the floor with the baby in their lap sitting up? That way the baby is stimulated with toys on the floor (less likely to squirm) and if they do squirm away they are already on the floor.

I was babysitting newborns at 12, and holding babies earlier than that. I think it would depend on the kid holding the baby, but I wouldn't be too worried. I think having them sit on the floor is a great idea!

@chopsuey119: damn, 8 years old?! that's legit... or child labor. HA!

I would def be comfortable with the older kids holding the baby, and would just keep my eye on the 9 year old.

I was a mommies helper to a neighbor with newborn twins when I was 12. He husban worked late so I would go over there after school and help play with the babies while she showered or made dinner. Then we would feed the babies give them a bath and put them to bed together. I made a bit of cash and she wa right there the whole time. It was great training for me and a big help for her.