Noblenanny News

Having babysitter policies in place makes it easier to find good people who will care for your children and maintain your house rules. Even if you have already found a good sitter, it is worthwhile reviewing your expectations, setting up policies and communicating them clearly. You can use the following successful babysitter policies as a guide:

1. Find a babysitter that is either a trusted family friend or a highly recommended person with relevant experience. This is an important consideration, most especially if your children require any special care.

2. Make certain your sitter is over the age of 12 and has taken a basic babysitter course and a First Aid course. If they have not yet taken a course, offer to pay for the course for them.

3. Have the babysitter spend time with you and your children before you leave them in charge.

4. be aware of how your children react when they find out who is going to be their sitter. Pay attention to the comments they make they may be telling you of past or potential problems.

5. Prepare firm, yet kind instructions in writing for your babysitter. Include your childrens bedtime time and routine, your expectations once the children are in bed and house rules for the sitter.

6. Have your babysitter arrive 30 minutes before you have to leave so you can have enough time to:

Go over your instructions together, answer all their questions and make sure they are comfortable with your house rules

Review bedtime(s) and routine in front of your children

Make sure the sitter knows all the emergency numbers and how to contact you

Communicate your child special needs

Take them on a tour of your home before you depart and give them a key (in case they have to take the children out).