How to Interview a Babysitter from UrbanSitter on Vimeo. Featuring “The Quintessential Haute Mommy” Paula Miranda. Produced by 11th&B.
Five Questions to Ask A Babysitter in an Interview
We asked parenting expert, Paula Miranda, to share her top tips for interviewing a babysitter. Watch this How to Interview a Babysitter video or read on.
1. What kind of experience do you have? It’s important to ask about babysitting experience–and more broadly about any experience they’ve had with children (tutoring, camp counselor, mentor, etc.). Ask specifically about the sitter’s CPR and First Aid certifications, any coursework that relates such as early childhood development, and how many years experience she has caring for young infants, toddlers, elementary aged kids, etc.
2. What kind of activities do you have planned? Have the babysitter give you an idea of the types of activities they might plan for your child: Games (hide and seek, soccer, board games), arts and crafts projects, bubbles, charades, etc. This will help you determine if the sitter will have good chemistry with your kids. If you have a budding soccer player, you’ll want a sitter who is willing to take him to the park.
3. Are you open to helping out around the house? This is a big one. If you expect anything else to be done while you’re gone — dishes, laundry, or even errands, you should ask upfront if the sitter is willing to do it.
4. Are you comfortable disciplining my child? Lay out your house rules and the methods you usually use (time out, etc.), so the sitter is not in the dark, and make sure she/he is comfortable with saying “no” and being firm.
5. What do you expect from us, the parents? This is something parents often forget about. Set your sitter up for success by asking how much guidance they want from you. For instance, the sitter might appreciate a written schedule outlining feedings, bath time, and bedtime procedures. A written list is always helpful, and don’t forget to include emergency contacts.UrbanSitter makes finding and interviewing a babysitter easy. After signing up, you’ll immediately see a selection of babysitters recommended by parents in your local network (child’s school, YMCA, or mother’s group). After narrowing your candidates, there are several types of interviews you can schedule at the click of a button:
- Phone interview – For some parents, a phone interview is all you need. You can gauge a lot from a 10-20 minute call.
- In-person interview – This can take place in your home or public location. At home, your kids would have a chance to meet the sitter, however, you may be able to focus better without your kids around.
- Paid, working interview – Hiring a babysitter to watch your kids while you’re home can be a great way to get to know a sitter. You set the desired pay rate.
