Checklist babysitter: find the right babysitter

Finding the right babysitter: 10 tips

How do you find out if a babysitter is right for you and your child? In a first conversation with the babysitter, he will be able to answer some of your questions. It is even better if he comes to your house several times and spends some time with your child. In this situation you can best observe whether the chemistry between the two is right and what strengths and weaknesses the babysitter has. You should consider the following 10 tips when you get to know each other:

• The first impression: Is the babysitter right for your child? Do you like him? Does he appear competent? Does the babysitter seem fond of children? Does he approach your child? Does he treat it warmly and with the necessary empathy?
• Your child’s reaction: How does your child react? Observe how your child meets the babysitter. If it is done and interested, that speaks for the babysitter. If your child is scared or maybe even bursting into tears, the babysitter does not seem to be a good choice.
• Motivation: Is the babysitter interested primarily in money, or does he or she genuinely enjoy spending time with children? If the latter is the case, this should be taken as a good sign.
• Age: Anyone who takes care of babies or small children should already have a certain maturity, seriousness and calmness in stressful situations.
• Experience: You should make sure that the babysitter has some experience working with children. Young people who have already taken care of their younger siblings are often particularly suitable.
• Interest: Does he show interest in your family and child? Take longer breaks in the interview and wait for the babysitter to ask questions. For example, if he asks about your bedtime ritual or diaper changing details, then he expresses sincere interest.
• Reliability: One of the most important qualities of a babysitter is reliability. Therefore, he should definitely come to your meeting on time. If the babysitter is not punctual, he may not take other arrangements too seriously.
• Behaviour: A babysitter should be able to keep a cool head in tricky situations. For example, you can ask him some trick questions during the interview and see how calm he is during such a test.
• Certification: Many parents feel more secure if their babysitter has a “Babysitter Diploma” or a “Babysitter Driver’s License”. Many charitable associations offer young people the opportunity to complete a special “babysitter course”. This teaches them the basics of baby care and nutrition, age-appropriate care and first aid. Successful participation is then confirmed with the “Babysitter Diploma”. During your interview, ask him whether he can produce a “babysitter diploma” or whether he has learned first aid measures and can also use them on babies.
• Don’t be too strict! Of course, there is no perfect babysitter, because everyone has their weaknesses. Always pay attention to your gut feeling and rely on it when in doubt.