Finding a babysitter for your child can become a difficult task. So
many people have trouble trusting someone with their child if they aren’t a
relative or a close friend. When considering a babysitter outside of your inner
circle consider following these helpful tips in order to feel more comfortable
with this transition.
·
Ask your friends or coworkers for
referrals on babysitters that they use outside of their circle of family or
close friends if you do not know anyone outside of your immediate circle.
·
Invite the prospective sitter over
to your house for a short “interview” asking them how they would handle
hypothetical situations. Be prepared with questions that would relate to your
child’s age, ability, and personality. Some examples would be the following:
1)
What would you do if my child
tried to run from you while you were outside playing?
2)
What would you do if my child
acted like they weren’t feeling well?
3)
How would you handle a phone call
or a knock on the door from someone that sounded suspicious or unfamiliar to my
child/family?
Remember to ask for
references and ask them why they enjoy babysitting.
·
While the prospective sitter is at
your house for the “interview” discuss with them your routines at home, show
them where important things are kept such as medicine, insurance information,
important phone numbers, etc. Use this time to discuss hourly pay for
babysitting and transportation if they are under driving age or do not have
their own transportation.
·
Do a trial run. Have the
babysitter come over for an hour to spend time with your child while you take a
quick trip to the store or pick up carry-out. This short visit establishes a
relationship and you will be able to see how your child reacts to having a
sitter outside of the usual family member or friend and you will know if the
sitter is comfortable caring for your child and would want to come back for a
longer time.
·
Before you leave the sitter with
your child, remember to have the following prepared for them:
1)
A copy of your insurance card in
case of an emergency
2)
A list of your numbers and
important numbers if they cannot reach you
3)
A list of anything important
relating to your child’s routine, health, or how to handle tough situations
such as bedtime or potty training
Every parent needs adult time or time away from the home to refresh and
relax. Schedule times in advance to look forward to or for things you aren’t
able to do with a busy schedule with work, school and family. View the following websites for other tips on
finding the right fit for your babysitting needs.
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