by Lynn Perkins, founder, Urban Sitter
Finding a great sitter isn't always easy. Keeping a great sitter can be even harder than that! Once you've hired a babysitter who you trust, who your kids adore, who abides by bedtime rules and maybe even loads the dinner plates into the dishwasher, you'll want to be sure she (or he!) comes back. Here are some good reminders for every parent, the experienced and the babysitter-boss newbies and the rest of us in between, on how to set the sitter up for success.
1. Go over the basics. You may assume that everybody knows how to change a diaper or whip up a batch of mac 'n cheese. This is not always the case. Ask her if she's familiar with the less-than-glamorous aspects of child-rearing, and if not, show her the process, step by step. You'll be happy she knows for next time!
Related: What Babysitters & Parents Really Think!
2. Exchange text messages with her when she arrives. This is a quick and easy way to ensure he's armed with your cell phone number in case of an emergency (or even to ask if chocolate milk is OK with dinner).
3. Be ready with dinner options -- for THE SITTER. According to a recent survey conducted by UrbanSitter, most sitters do not expect a homemade meal or take-out, but they do appreciate a casual mention of options. "Help yourself to a frozen burrito" or "I've ordered a pizza for the kids. There should be enough for you, too" are great ways to start.
Related: How Young is too Young to Start Babysitting?
4. Have some new games or activities ready. To make your departure easier, show the sitter (and kids) at least one new and exciting game/puzzle/craft/coloring book. This makes passing the time until you return easier on both parties.
5. Be sure to have the correct change on hand -- or round up. Most sitters want to be paid in cash, and there's nothing worse than realizing you don't have any at 11 p.m. Hit the ATM on your way out, and if you owe her $55 but you only have twenties, round up. She'll remember you fondly.
More from GalTime.com:
- Halloween 2012: 12 Hottest Kid Costumes
- How Much Sleep Should Kids Really Get?
- What Your Kids Learn From Your Marriage
- 5 Tips to Turn Your Child Into A Leader
Connect with GalTime on Facebook!
Lynn Perkins is co-founder of UrbanSitter, a service that enables parents and babysitters to connect online through Facebook and their existing networks. She is also the proud mom of twin boys and a graduate of Stanford University.
