How to Make a Checklist for a Babysitter

Leaving the kids with a trusted babysitter is a big step. This article will give you suggestions on how to make a checklist for a babysitter to ensure that all goes well when you are gone.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Emergency phone numbers
• Phone number of child's doctor
• Poison Control Hotline phone number

1. List the names and ages of the children who will be watched including birthdays. Any allergies (food or medication) should be listed below this.
2. List the phone numbers where you can be reached. Include at least one alternate contact in case you cannot be reached. In bold letters, write the local emergency phone numbers, the poison control hotline number and the phone number for the child's doctor.
3. Depending on the age of the child or children, you may want to include a section on what they will try to get away with and the best way to handle it.
4. If the time you will be gone is during bedtime, the list should specify bedtimes and bedtime rituals and what each child likes to sleep with for security. Whether the child is allowed to have a bottle or a drink before bed should be mentioned also. If you haven't laid out pajamas their location should be listed.
5. If a non-life threatening emergency occurs and the babysitter needs to take the children in the car, leave instructions on whether this is ok or what the alternative plan should be. If car seats will be used, show the babysitter how to put them into the car correctly.
6. If this time falls during mealtime, write down what each child is expected to eat and portions of each food type. Include whether they can have more or less and if certain plates or silverware are used. Don't forget information on snacks and drinks. This should also specify if drinks need to be kept out of certain rooms or off furniture.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't forget to tell the babysitter what is available for her to eat or drink.
• Let the babysitter know if you have a preference of having her answer the phone or have the answering machine pick up.