How to Find a Babysitter in Your Area
Finding a babysitter for your kids can be a challenge, especially if you are new in the area. Locating someone who is trustworthy, caring and responsible is the primary concern, not only for your children but for you as well. There aren't too many feelings worse for a parent than constantly worrying and wondering if your children are safe and well-cared for when you aren't there to do it yourself. A little research and patience can help you find a quality babysitter and ease that concern.
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Instructions
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Ask friends, neighbors and co-workers for recommendations. They can recommend someone they like and have used before, or they may have a teenager or college-aged child who can do the job.
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Check local high schools, colleges and universities. Many have job boards with students looking for part-time work, including babysitting. They may also have a childhood education department where students earn credit for caring for children in a home.
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Contact a babysitter agency. Check online and in the phone book. Agencies typically do thorough background checks and interviews with potential caretakers, and they offer clear guidelines for rates and rules. Many online agencies have searches you can do for your particular area, as well as things like pay-rate calculators.
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Check with local community groups and libraries. They may have classes in childhood education or have a list of babysitters in the area.
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Contact your child's school. They may have a list of babysitters or be able to provide you with the contact information for other parents.
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Tips & Warnings
Interview any prospective babysitter, even if they have references. Make a list of questions covering pay rates, hours and any specifics; for example, if you will let them cook or have people over. Let them meet the children, too.
Using a recommendation from a friend or family member is probably the most reliable method; even then, make sure you ask the same questions you would of any prospective babysitter.
Trust your gut. Even if someone has references, don't hire them if you feel uncomfortable about it.
Be wary of using unverified sources, such as free online job boards, as it is easier for predators to slip through.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Happy Children image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
