What to Look for in a Babysitter

Finding the right babysitter is an important step in keeping your child safe, supported and happy when you’re away. Key areas that parents should focus on include: safety, supervision, communication and caregiver fit.

Here’s how to choose a babysitter you can trust.

Where to Start 

• Start with trusted sources, such as word of mouth and online agencies (which may offer background checks)
• If you’re considering a teen sitter, make sure to talk with their parents about expectations and how the teenager handles responsibilities
• Have a few options. It’s helpful to have at least 2 backup sitters who know your child in case your regular sitter isn’t available
• For safety, avoid posting public ads or flyers, which can attract unwanted responses. Instead, rely on recommendations and known connections whenever possible

How to Choose a Babysitter

1. Start with a Thorough Screening
   • Before hiring a babysitter, take time to thoughtfully review and screen your
     candidates
   • Ask for references and make sure to contact them
   • Consider a background check
   • Ask about experience with children your child’s age
   • Ask for their responsibilities in previous babysitting roles
   • Look for prior childcare training or education. Caregivers with more experience and training tend to be more responsive and better at supporting children’s development
2. Prioritize Safety Training
   • CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and first aid certification are strongly recommended
   • They should know how to respond to choking, which differs by age
   • Make sure they know when and how to call 911
   • Babysitters frequently encounter everyday injuries like cuts, burns and choking, so these skills matter
3. Schedule a Trial Run
   • Have the sitter spend time with you and your children and watch how the babysitter interacts with your child. Take these thoughts into consideration: 
     • Do they get down to the child’s level and engage?
     • Are they attentive or distracted?
     • Do they respond calmly to challenges?
     • Children often give helpful cues—if something feels off, it’s worth paying attention to how your child is feeling
4. Set Clear Expectations Early
   • Many babysitting problems happen simply because expectations weren’t discussed. Clearly go over:
     • Discipline approach
     • Screen time rules
     • Routines: feeding, bathing, sleeping arrangements, etc. 
     • Discuss house rules, including whether they can leave the house or have visitors
     • Schedule and time when you will need the babysitter to be available
     • Clearly discuss the responsibilities of the sitter, such as whether it includes helping with homework, cleaning, driving, etc.
5. Focus on Supervision and Safety Awareness
   • Choose someone who understands constant supervision is essential
     • Younger children should never be left unattended
     • Older siblings should not be the primary supervisors
   • Teenage babysitters can be energetic and playful, but they may be less strict with discipline and less experienced in handling problem situations
     • If your child is close to 12 years old, you will need a considerably older sitter, as a teenager only one or two years older may not have much authority
   • Even responsible sitters need clear guidance—don’t assume they’ll “figure it out.” For example, it is important to show the babysitter around the house, point out fire escape routes, show them where to find the first aid kit
   • Make sure that guns and other weapons in the home are stored properly in a locked
     safe or cabinet with ammunition stored separately
   • Leave written emergency information, including:
     • Parent cell phone number
     • Parent physical home address and address/ location while they are away
     • The name of your child’s pediatrician and their phone number 
     • Allergies, medications, medical conditions and approximate weight
     • Police/fire contact, including 911
     • Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
   • Once hired, parents should also obtain: 
     • Babysitter’s cell phone number 
     • Home/physical location where the babysitting is taking place if it is not at your home
6. Look for the Right Personal Qualities
   • Beyond credentials, the babysitter’s personal qualities matter. A strong babysitter is:
     • Mature and responsible
     • Reliable and punctual
     • Patient and calm
     • Safety-conscious
     • Warm, engaging and responsive with your child
     • Most importantly, your child should feel comfortable and safe with them
7. Keep Communication Open
   • A good babysitter should communicate by:
     • Asking questions about your child’s needs
       • Don't be afraid to clarify instructions when questions are asked! 
     • Keeping you updated when needed 
       • You don't have to have a minute-by-minute update for your child when you are away. Having trust your babysitter can watch your child safely is as important to them as it is to you 

Final Thoughts

Choosing a babysitter isn’t just about availability—it’s about safety, preparation and connection. Taking time to screen, communicate and observe can make a big difference in your child’s well-being and your own peace of mind. For more practical guidance, parents can visit healthychildren.org, the AAP’s trusted resource for child health and safety information.

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Aria Vue, MD

Pediatric Resident

Dr. Aria Vue comes to Valley Children's from St. George’s University School of Medicine and is in her first year of pediatric residency. Dr. Vue has a care philosophy rooted in providing compassionate, comprehensive care that addresses the physical, emotional and social well-being of every child and family that she serves. She is passionate about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that honors cultural diversity and fosters trust between families and providers. To learn more about Dr. Vue, click here.