How to Prep For a Babysitter
Leaving your child with a babysitter can feel a little nerve-wracking—whether it’s your first time out or your hundredth. The best way to ease that worry? Preparation. When your babysitter has the right information, you can relax knowing your child is safe, your sitter feels confident, and your kids are comfortable because their routines and needs are being met.
Here’s a checklist of what we recommend you go over with any babysitter before you head out:
the basics
Emergency Plan – Make sure your sitter knows to call 911 in case of an emergency, and provide clear instructions on how to handle urgent situations.
Your Home Address – If they need to call for help, having your address on hand is essential.
Wifi & House Info – Share your wifi password, plus any house rules (like screen time limits, no roughhousing in certain rooms, etc.).
contact information
Your Numbers – Cell phone and any backup numbers.
Other Trusted Adults – A nearby friend, neighbor, or family member they can call if they can’t reach you.
Doctor & Poison Control – Keep the pediatrician’s phone number and poison control hotline posted and easy to find.
your child’s information
Names & Birthdays – Especially helpful for sitters juggling multiple kids.
Medications & Allergies – Include details about doses, timing, and any allergies to watch for.
Emergency Allergy Plan – If your child has an allergy, make sure the sitter knows the signs of a reaction, when to call 911, and how to use an EpiPen if prescribed.
routines and preferences
Bedtime Routine – Kids thrive on consistency. Let your sitter know what the bedtime flow looks like (bath, book, favorite stuffed animal, etc.).
Meals & Snacks – Share what’s planned for dinner and what snacks are approved.
Activity Ideas – Suggest favorite games, shows, or crafts to keep the evening fun and stress-free.
other helpful notes
House quirks (like a tricky lock or alarm system).
Any words or signals your child uses for comfort.
Things your child might push back on (and how you usually handle it).
make it easy with our babysitter guide
To simplify all of this, we created a printable Babysitter Guide you can grab from our website for just $2.99.
This guide is:
✅ Clear and easy to follow
✅ Customizable for your family’s needs
✅ Packed with safety reminders and space for important details
It covers everything from emergency contacts and medical info to bedtime routines, dinner ideas, and even wifi passwords—so your sitter has everything they need in one place.
Grab your Babysitter Guide today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your babysitter is fully prepared and your kids are well cared for while you’re away.
