Finding the Right Babysitter

Choosing a sitter that is responsible can be a very hard decision as a parent. Finding a sitter in general can be even more difficult. What is the best way to find a reliable babysitter? SharpMoms thinks word of mouth is probably a good place to start. Check with your friends who have children, friends who have children of age to babysit, your church group, your child’s preschool teacher, etc.

You can also check the phone book for local babysitting and nanny agencies. Who remembers the episode of Jon and Kate Plus 8 where Kate interviews several nannies through a local company? You can always meet up with a few and give them a “test drive” by letting them come over and play with the kids while you are home.

Know a college gal? Ask her to give the names of some reliable friends. Better yet, go check out the bulletin board at the dorm. Ask a sorority alumna to give you the names of some girls she would recommend for hire. Most girls in college that are willing to sit love kids and are looking for a few extra buck to pay off that Coach Bag they have been eying.

Once your find your sitter, how do you know they are doing a good job? Here are some red flags when looking for signs of a bad babysitter or nanny:
~Your child looks unkept or dirty.
~Your child avoids the sitter when he/she shows up (crying, clingy, etc.)
~Your nanny or sitter shows up late.
~The stories just don’t make sense. If she is lying or stealing most likely some storytelling will come into play. Don’t be fooled!
~Too many mishaps have occurred. If your child has had one to many “close calls” perhaps you should look into finding a new nanny or sitter.