What the Babysitter Needs to Know

Personal recommendations are the best way to find a reliable, mature, friendly babysitter who likes children. If you’ve just moved into an area, ask neighbors, co-workers, or your child’s doctor for suggestions. When interviewing potential babysitters, ask if they are certified in child CPR. You could also invite the sitter over to your home so that they get to know the house and your first grader. 

• Run the babysitter through your routine. Mention homework, mealtimes, bedtime, and any rules such as how much television your child is allowed to watch.
• Tell the babysitter where you will be and how to contact you.
• Provide a list of emergency numbers, including neighbors, relatives, your doctor, and the poison control number (1.800.222.1222). Post the list on the fridge, or by the phone.
• Make sure the babysitter knows what to do in an emergency.
• Let the babysitter know about any special needs your child has, for example, allergies or medication. Write down medication instructions and explain them.
• Show the babysitter where the first aid kit is kept.  
• Demonstrate how the burglar alarms work and where the exits, smoke alarms, and fire extinguishers are.
• Let your babysitter know your expectations before you leave the house. Do you want them using your phone or inviting friends round, for example? 

If this all sounds a lot, remember that when you find a babysitter you like, you may only have to explain this once. And though they probably won’t need to use half of this information, it’s always good to know. Remember the Boy Scout motto: Be Prepared. One last thing, make sure your own child knows how to call 911, just in case the babysitter is hurt. 

For more information on choosing and instructing a babysitter, please see the full article: