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All parents occasionally need time away from their children. So finding a dependable babysitter is a must. Some churches, schools, pediatricians and neighborhood groups make a list of babysitters for parents. Word of mouth from a friend or neighbor might also lead you to a babysitter. No matter how you find out about a babysitter, always interview people before leaving your children in their care.
Factors to consider when interviewing potential babysitting candidates
Age: While there is no absolute magic age that guarantees a responsible babysitter, a national education organization safe sitter course requires youths to be at least age 11 to participate in its classes. You should also check with your local police department because some states have laws that determine the legal age for when a youth can babysit.
Responsibilities: Consider the ages and number of children to be watched. Infants and toddlers require constant supervision while an older child may require less. Consider the length of time that you will be away. A younger sitter may be fine for a few hours in the evening when the children are asleep but may not be able to handle the multiple tasks like bathing and feeding small children.
Experience and skill level: Check if sitters have earned certification from a safe babysitting course, usually offered by various civic groups in your community. If so, you know the sitters are trained in first aid and safety basics. Ideally, a sitter should have knowledge of rescue techniques for choking, along with CPR training. During the interview, ask hypothetical questions.
Personality: Arrange a trial run to see how your children interact with the sitter. If possible, have the sitter come to the house for an hour or two while you are home.
References: Ask for references of other families who have used the sitter. If the sitter has little experience, get a character reference from another adult or teacher who knows the sitter.
Prepare the babysitter for the job
- Give a detailed tour of your home. Point out telephones and post emergency numbers including a relative or friend who can be reached immediately. Always leave a phone number where you can be reached and tell the sitter where you will be.
- Review household hints such as how to work the heating and air-conditioner systems, how to work any alarms and what to do should an alarm sound.
- Give precise instructions about your expectations regarding feeding and bedtime schedules. Review rules in the presence of your children so everyone is clear about what is expected.
- If your sitter must administer any medication, write down and review the exact dosage amount and the time that the medicine should be given.
- Review household rules. Specify areas that are off-limits. Discuss your policy regarding the sitter's use of the phone and outside visitors.
- Prepare your sitter for an emergency by leaving your child's health care provider's name and number, along with health insurance information and a medical release authorizing medical treatment until you can be reached.
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External Source
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KidsHealth (www.kidshealth.org)
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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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