As a parent, leaving your little ones with a babysitter can be a daunting experience, especially when family isn’t nearby for support. My partner and I often rely on a few trusted caregivers to watch our kids during our rare nights out. Most of the time, we’ve been fortunate to find sitters who not only take great care of our children but also enjoy their company. However, there was that one time when a sitter got locked out while our son was peacefully sleeping inside, and instead of calling us, she chose to chill in the backyard—definitely not the best scenario!
This reminded me that it’s crucial for parents to clearly communicate their household rules and expectations to babysitters. Just recently, I heard from my friend Jenna about her teen son’s babysitting dilemma; he was dealing with kids who were using inappropriate language, and he was unsure how to respond. Should he discipline them, ignore it, or inform the parents? This situation underscores the importance of having guidelines in place for sitters to follow, from how to manage behavior to what steps to take in emergencies.
Here are ten key points every babysitter should know:
- Where’s the Spare Key?
Always inform your babysitters about the location of your spare key. This way, if they need to step outside for any reason, they won’t be stuck outside while the kids are inside. - Food Guidelines
Clarify whether your sitters can help themselves to food. I prefer my babysitters to eat something rather than go hungry, but every household has different rules. Make yours clear. - Disciplinary Actions
Set clear expectations regarding discipline. Some sitters may be too strict, while others may be too lenient. Let them know what forms of discipline you approve of—time-outs might work, but spanking definitely doesn’t! - Bedtime Expectations
Share both the ideal and realistic bedtimes for your children. While things may not always go as planned, ensuring your babysitter understands that bedtime is a priority is essential. - Feeding Times
Inform the babysitter about meal times, including whether dinner has been eaten and if dessert is an option. Kids can be sneaky about snacks when parents are away, so set the rules! - Emergency Procedures
Always instruct your sitters on what to do in case of an emergency. For instance, tell them to call 911 first, then reach you. It’s vital to have a plan for those unforeseen events. - Screen Time Rules
If you have a limit on screen time, let your babysitter know. While a little TV might be okay, I prefer my kids to engage with the sitter rather than zone out in front of the screen all night. - Cleaning Expectations
Discuss what is expected in terms of tidiness. I don’t expect my sitters to do chores, but I do ask them to tidy up the kitchen a bit. Be clear about your preferences to avoid disappointment. - Medical Information
Ensure that your babysitter has access to important medical information, including your pediatrician’s contact details and your insurance info. It’s always better to be prepared. - Phone Usage
I’d prefer that babysitters refrain from using their phones while the kids are awake, except for emergencies. It’s important for them to be engaged with the children until bedtime.
These tips may seem straightforward, but they can make all the difference in ensuring a calm and safe evening for both the babysitter and your kids. For more related insights, check out our blog post about effective communication strategies here. And if you’re considering at-home options for family planning, you might want to explore Cryobaby’s at-home insemination kits, which provide a convenient way to start your journey. For additional guidance on pregnancy and home insemination, visit Mount Sinai’s resource page.
In summary, open communication and clear guidelines can help ensure that your babysitting experience is smooth and stress-free. By laying out expectations, you can create a safe and enjoyable environment for your kids while you enjoy a well-deserved night out.