Emma Stephenson always dreams of having a new car and going to college. So, the sophomore from Montgomery County High School has started a babysitting service that could help her fulfill those dreams.

Stephenson will be available to babysit any children in the Montgomery County area from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m.-8 p.m. on weekends. She said her goal for her business is to be a mature and responsible babysitter for children.

“I love getting to know new kids,” Stephenson said. “I connect well with kids because I have so many younger family members. I also was in a child development class. We went to (Montgomery City) Elementary school every week. That’s what helped me connect with kids. I have experienced babysitting my siblings, my cousins and kids from different families and friends.”

Stephenson posted an ad for her business, “Babysitting by Emma Stephenson,” on Facebook. The ad includes her contact information and her tagline, “Your friendly neighborhood babysitter in Montgomery County.”

“There are so many things in my life I wish I could change, but one of those things is relying on everyone else,” Stephenson said. “I wanted to get a job, but most places won’t hire me because of my age or school hours. So I decided to post a babysitting ad.”

Stephenson said any parents in the Montgomery County area who need someone to watch their children should take advantage of her service.

“I think babysitting services are important to Montgomery County because some parents can’t afford childcare but a babysitter doesn’t charge as much,” Stephenson said. “Babysitters connect with the child and their families.”

Stephenson comes from a large family. She is the oldest of six children and has six younger cousins.

“As I was growing up, I would help my aunt and uncle with watching their kids,” Stephenson said. “The same with my mom. Starting at the age of around 10, I would have to keep an eye on my siblings.”

Stephenson is involved in basketball cheerleading, FCCLA and the A+ program at MCHS. She said plans to work as a nurse in the future.

“I grew up thinking that I was destined to grow up the same way as my family,” Stephenson said. “My aunts helped me realize I have many more opportunities than what I thought.”

For more information, contact Stephenson at 636-725-3247 or emmagraces0920@gmail.com.