Checklist for Preparing a New Babysitter

When a new babysitter starts working for you for the first time, you'll want to make sure you give him or her all the information needed to care for your children in the best way possible. Ask the babysitter to arrive at least 15 minutes before the time you're scheduled to leave, so you can give the sitter a tour of the house, pointing out where telephones, first aid equipment, and alternative exits are located. Then go over other relevant information with the sitter, answering any questions that might arise.

Most of the information a babysitter will need is likely to be the same each time you go out, so it's a good idea to have a "permanent" checklist or information sheet that you keep in a safe place or post in an accessible spot. A "babysitter checklists" has been provided below, which you can customize to meet your specific needs. If you have a printed checklist that you reuse each time you go out, make sure you record any information specific to the occasion, such as where you will be, how you can be reached and when you will return.