Babysitter Checklist

Written by Jessica Rosenberg

Mom Stages - Babies

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The first time a new sitter comes over to your house, you might be overwhelmed in the middle of the chaos that surrounds the hand off and forget to go over a few key points. Here are some things you might want to remember.

What does the sitter need to know about the children?

• How many children will the sitter be watching?
• What are their names and how old are they?
• Do the children have any allergies or medical conditions that the sitter needs to be aware of?

What does the sitter need to know about the house?

• Take a second to review any household rules you want the sitter to know.
• What are your rules about TV? Can the kids watch?
• Make sure she knows how to turn on the TV.
• What are your rules about computer time or video games?
• Are there any areas of the house that are off-limits or restricted?
• Where do you keep the fire extinguisher?
• Take her on a tour of the house and point out anything you think she might need to know about: pantry, where the children's clothes are kept, bathroom, etc...

What does the sitter need to know to be on top of the childcare?

• Where can she find essentials like diapers, wipes, changes of clothes?
• Do you need her to prepare any meals or snacks for the children? Are there any foods that should be avoided?
• Can she help herself to food from the refrigerator?
• Do the children have homework or chores to complete? If so, do you need her to help make sure these get done?
• Are there any chores that you expect her to do?
• What time is bedtime?
• Go over everyone's bedtime routine. Do the children have any favorite stories, songs, or rituals that will help put them at ease?

Are there any extras the sitter needs to know about?

• Are there any pets? If so, do they need to be fed? Can they go outside?
• What are some of the children's favorite play activities?
• What are the children’s favorite books?
• Do you expect the sitter to answer the phone?

What does the sitter need to know about communicating with you?

• How can she reach you in case of an emergency?
• Who can she call if she can’t reach you?
• What are the hours of the babysitting job?
• What time do you usually get home?
• Will you call if you’re going to be later than planned?

Before the sitter arrives take a moment to walk yourself mentally through your child's routine, what you do when he has a bad night, and look around your home, pretending to be a stranger. Make a note of the things that spring to mind. You might not remember them when the new sitter arrives and they're probably key things that she needs to know to have a successful time with your baby.

Jessica Rosenberg is an aspiring novelist and freelance writer who blogs daily at It's My Life... and posts frequent reviews and giveaways at The Lemonade Stand.

(Image of clipboard- copyright belongs to the Microsoft Office Clipart Gallery.)

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