Training a new babysitter can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re leaving your little ones in someone else’s care for the first time. But you deserve a night (or more) off, where you can eat dinner before it goes cold and no one uses you as a human napkin.
A little planning goes a long way to ease everyone’s minds when it comes to a new babysitter. A few tips...
Clearly communicate your expectations, specific instructions and rules you have for your children, including bedtime routines, screen time preferences, household safety, etc. Providing a written list of instructions can be helpful, as it ensures that nothing is missed.
Take some time to familiarize the babysitter with your home and any off-limits areas. I always take this opportunity to show the babysitter where the only-after-the-kids-go-to-bed snacks are located.
Provide your sitter with your contact information and where you’ll be going. I always leave the basics: my number, the neighbor’s number and emergency contact information. And mom, remember to fully charge your phone and check it periodically, especially if it’s going to be a late night out.
Finally, consider the first time you’re working with a new babysitter as a trial run. I do this a few times to gauge their skills, trustworthiness and character. If it’s not a good fit, don’t hesitate to find a better care provider for your family. It’s important to trust your instincts and choose someone you feel comfortable with and confident in.
Training a new babysitter takes a bit of preparation and communication, but it’s worth it for the occasional child-free date night.
If you’re needing additional training assistance with a care provider, leave all the heavy lifting to our Direct Support Career Academy. We offer courses on a wide variety of support skills, specializing in positive, person-centered approaches to meet the needs of the people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
Brought to you by:
Kids NW
922 NW Circle Blvd, Ste 160-112
Corvallis, OR 97330
kidsnw.org | 1.888.360.0360
Audrey Benson Behavior Supervisor
KIDS NW connects families with compassionate caregivers, specially trained in serving individuals with disabilities.