Whether you are heading back to work, school or just need some "you" time, child care is a necessary part of most parent's lives. Many parents go the conventional route and use a day care facility, while others choose licensed home child care or a baby sitter. If you are thinking of hiring a baby sitter, there are a few things to consider to help you find the baby sitter that's right for your family.
Advantages of Hiring a Baby Sitter
A baby sitter in your home can provide the security in knowing who exactly is taking care of your child. Conventional day care centers have several care-takers responsible for many children. A baby sitter ensures that your child will get the individual care and attention she needs. Knowing your baby sitter on a personal level will build trust between the two of you, giving you peace of mind when you leave your child in her care.
Where to Look
In many cases, the best place to find a baby sitter is through your friends and extended family. Even neighbors may be able to recommend a competent sitter they've used in the past. Checking community forums is also an option. If neither of those options work, check the Web. Quite a few websites connect baby sitters to parents looking to hire. These services are popular because many do the hard part for you by completing background checks and reference checks on potential candidates.
Required Skills
CPR and first aid training are a must for any baby sitter you hire. Accidents can happen while you are away and it's vital that your baby sitter can handle emergency situations. If you choose to hire a sitter for full time while you are at work, your baby sitter should have a driver's license and a clean driving record. According to Babycenter website, your potential baby sitter should possess a lot of energy. You want a baby sitter that will engage your child's interests and keep them happy.
References
To prove that your potential baby sitter is responsible and can be trusted, it's important that she provide you with a list of references. Good references can vouch for a person's character and maturity level. Speak with those she lists as references. This will help you get a clear idea if she will be a good fit for your family. Ask about previous baby-sitting jobs she's had to determine her level of experience with child care.
Trial Visits
Once you have chosen the baby sitter that fits your qualifications and that you like, suggest a paid trial visit. Decide on a day and time that is convenient for both of you. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggest that you have a potential sitter get to know your child for an hour, supervised by you, to make sure you and your child are comfortable with her in your home.
