As a parent without family nearby, my husband and I rely on a handful of trusted babysitters to care for our kids during our rare outings. While most of our experiences have been positive, there have been a few hiccups along the way—like the time a sitter got locked out of our house while our child was sleeping inside and chose to wait in the backyard instead of calling us for help. Thankfully, everything turned out fine, but it highlighted the importance of clear communication with babysitters about household expectations and emergency protocols.
Recently, a friend of mine, Sarah, shared a dilemma involving her teenage son, who was babysitting some children that were misbehaving and using inappropriate language. He was unsure whether to discipline them, ignore it, or inform their parents. This situation reinforced the notion that sitters need guidance on household rules, from discipline strategies to emergency responses.
Here are ten crucial points every babysitter should be made aware of:
- Location of Spare Key
Make sure your babysitter knows where to find the spare key. I always tell mine about its hiding spot, ensuring they can access the house without being locked out while my kids are inside. - Food Policy
Let your sitter know whether they can help themselves to food. While I don’t mind them snacking on what we have, it’s important to communicate any specific rules regarding food so they’re not left guessing. - Disciplinary Guidelines
Different families have varied approaches to discipline. I clearly outline what’s acceptable in our home—time-outs are fine, but spanking is off the table. Make your expectations known to avoid confusion. - Bedtime Routine
Every parent has an ideal bedtime for their children, but it’s essential to share realistic expectations. I provide my sitters with a time that works for us, emphasizing that bedtime is non-negotiable, even if the kids protest. - Meal Schedule
Communicate what meals the children will have and when. I always inform the babysitter if dinner has been served or if dessert is an option. It helps prevent chaos and sugar-fueled antics when we return. - Emergency Plan
Outline the procedure for emergencies. I tell my sitters to call 911 first and then contact me. It’s crucial to prepare for worst-case scenarios, especially in areas prone to natural disasters. - Screen Time Rules
I prefer my kids to engage with the sitter rather than watch TV. However, I allow some screen time on weekend nights. I make sure the sitter understands our screen time limits to keep the kids active and entertained. - Household Cleanliness Expectations
While I don’t expect my sitters to clean extensively, I do ask them to tidy up the kitchen and manage any immediate mess. Be clear about what you expect; otherwise, you might come home to a disaster. - Medical Information
Ensure your babysitter has access to important medical details. Although it’s rare, they may need to reach a pediatrician or handle an emergency. Provide them with necessary contact numbers and insurance info. - Phone Usage Policy
I prefer sitters to focus on the kids until they’re asleep. Once the children are tucked in, I’m okay with them using their phones freely. It’s important to clarify when they can use their devices to avoid distractions.
These guidelines may seem simple, but clear communication can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth babysitting experience. For more insights into family care, check out our post on the home insemination kit, which provides valuable information for parents.
In summary, providing a clear set of expectations and guidelines for your babysitter is essential to prevent misunderstandings and chaos during their time with your children. This proactive approach not only ensures your kids are cared for properly but also gives you peace of mind.