Hiring a Babysitter - what to look for

Everyone needs a night out once in awhile. Remember "date night"?

Even if you already have a full-time nanny, it's a good idea to have a sitter or two available for those nights out with your spouse or friends.

Most people aren't sure how to find a potential sitter, or feel uncomfortable asking those personal questions. Here's a handy checklist to make things easier.

• A babysitter should be no younger than 13 years old.

• Ask your babysitter if they have taken the Babysitter Course, Home Alone, or CPR and First Aid. Ask to see the certificate.

• If you are using an adult sitter - 18 years or older, ask them for a police check. Everyone needs one these days when working with children or the elderly - so don't be shy about asking to see the original document.

• Meet with your babysitter's parents. If the sitter is young, invite the parents to sit in in the interview as well. This makes the atmosphere more comfortable, and you can get more feedback from meeting with the parents as well.

• Has the babysitter been referred by anyone you know? If they have babysat for other friends or neighbours you will be able to get a reference.

• Does the sitter have any previous babysitting experience? The more experience the better, especially if you have an infant or younger child.

• Laying down some ground rules.

Safety is most important. Set a list of rules that the sitter is allowed to do with your children and not allowed. ie: pool safety, driving, outdoor safety, visitors to the home, cooking.

• Important information. Always leave a note for your sitter with emergency contacts. Include your work number, cell number, neighbours you trust, Doctors numbers, OHIP etc. If your child has allergies or is ill, leave specific information on what will be the emergency protocol for your babysitter.

• If ever in doubt, do not hire the sitter.

• For interview questions visit our website - http://www.familycareconnectionnanny.com/parent-hiring-tips.htm