5 signs of a great sitter

Lindsay Bell — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 22:27:00 +0000

When do you know you found a top-notch sitter? Here are my 5signs of a great sitter!

Sheasks questions! Your sitter is through, savvy & smart. You know you found agem if she asks you for the 411 before she starts babysitting. Does your lil’one have allergies? Can you give me a tour of your home so I know whereeverything is? Is there anything you need me to do for you when the kids fallasleep?

Shedoesn’t look at her phone every 5 minutes. The sitter’s attention should befully on your child. I frequently see nannies pushing strollers talking ontheir phones. How can a childcare provider push a stroller, hold up a phone upto her ear and pay attention to your child’s needs? I understand the headset inone ear and the other ear for the child for a quick call, but long time phoneconversations are a NO. Also, I don’t like when sitters are constantly texting.Never should a sitter answer a phone call on the job when the kids are awake, unlessthey ask permission ahead of time.

She isCPR Trained/Certified and knows the ropes of fire safety. Wouldn’t you feel safer if your childcare providercould administer CPR if necessary? Or if someone is choking and your childneeds the Heimlich? Go with someone thatis confident, educated and prepared.

College-Educated& Professional. She has her 4-year degree, and possibly beyond. She is workingfull/part-time and has an impressive career. She’s well rounded, traveled and brings her experience to provide thebest childcare for your child.

Shecan put on a show! Your child learns something new from her every time. Sheeither brings activities, or has some great new activity for the kids to playwith. She’s unique and fun, and your child looks forward to her visit every time.

-LB

New York Nanny Center » first time childcare

5 signs of a great sitter