Before the babysitter arrives
- Confirm the sitter's arrival and departure time, rate and transportation.
- Charge your phone and save the sitter's number.
- Write down your address, two parent numbers and a nearby emergency contact.
- List allergies, medications and relevant health information.
- Secure firearms, alcohol, medications and private documents.
Walk through the home
Show the sitter exits, smoke alarms, fire extinguisher, first-aid supplies and areas that are off limits. Explain locks, alarms, pool rules and which neighbors can help. If pets are present, describe their behavior and keep animals separated when appropriate.
Explain each child's routine
Review meals, snacks, bedtime, screen-time limits, comfort items and discipline expectations. Be specific about foods children may not eat and whether the sitter may take them outdoors. Never assume a new caregiver knows the routine.
Set communication expectations
Tell the sitter when you would like updates and what requires an immediate call. Share where you will be and approximately when you will return. If plans change, communicate promptly.
When you return
Ask how the visit went, whether any injury or unusual behavior occurred, and if instructions were unclear. Pay the agreed amount and arrange safe transportation home when needed. Keep notes about what worked before scheduling again.