Reliable, trustworthy, responsible, and respects your parenting methods,. These are just some of the characteristics of a good babysitter. It’s important to know how to choose a babysitter that will take care of your child when you’re not at home.
Tips on How to Choose a Babysitter
When choosing a nanny for your baby, you have to pay attention to these characteristics:
1. First impression matters.
I believe you are familiar with the gut feeling that you get about newcomers. The same goes when you choose a babysitter. She may have a roomful of diplomas and certificates, but it does not mean that she is the best choice for your child. If something about her appearance or behavior does not feel right, then you might want to consider other candidates.
2. Ask for documents and records.
“She is the baby whisperer, believe me! There is no one better.” You might get these and many other recommendations from your friends, relatives, or people you trust about a nanny. Whatever they say, please do not be ashamed to ask a potential babysitter to show you her diploma, certificate, and medical records. It is advisable to do this when you choose a babysitter, just to be on the safe side.
3. Pay attention.
When you choose a babysitter, try this technique. Ask her about the families for whom she has worked. Have a small talk and pay attention to how and what she says. If she gives away too much personal information about the employer’s family, then be sure you will soon be the topic of her conversations too.
4. Health matters.
Health is one of the key factors to be considered. If you have any doubts, ask for her medical records, then do not hesitate to offer prepaid tests at the hospital you have chosen. It is also advisable to pay for her visit to a psychologist to be sure about her mental state. Remember that this is the person you are about to entrust the care of your precious baby, so this is very important factor when you choose a babysitter.
5. Introduce to your child.
After you have made up your mind, introduce nanny or babysitter to your child. The first day or two, you can stay with them to help your baby adapt and see how they are getting along.
6. Monitor using camera.
Another tip on how to choose a babysitter is to use a hidden camera or wiretapping. You can never be 100% sure about anything. When you let a stranger into your home, it is okay to have some reassurance. This is just for a short period until you are sure that everything is okay, and the person is trustworthy.
7. Talk things over.
They say that two housewives cannot coexist under one roof. In some way, a babysitter takes on the role of the one who is in charge. She has her own way of doing things, and sometimes it can be annoying for you. Therefore, to avoid criticizing your employee, talk these little things over. By talking things through, it will also make you feel better. As a reminder, you can put some notes on the fridge.
8. Kissing and hugging a baby.
Of course, kissing and hugging is sweet and heartwarming, but if you are against it, then just say it. It is okay to set boundaries.
9. The babysitter must be sweet and smiley with the baby.
This tip on how to choose a babysitter is a necessary requirement for whoever you hire. Positive emotions and genuine warm feelings are very important for your child. You do not need a babysitter who does her job with the facial expression of an unhappy marble statue. Watch how the baby and nanny interact. It will show you what kind of person you have in your home watching your child.
Going back to work? Read my Tips for Going Back to Work After Maternity Leave and Traveling with Baby Checklist
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