Babysitting Age Requirements: What You Need to Know

babysitting jobs for teenagers
Whether your child is eager to explore babysitting jobs for teenagers or you’re assessing the qualifications of a potential babysitter, understanding babysitting age requirements can help to make informed decisions. The laws around babysitting for teens (and even younger aspiring sitters!) can be a tricky topic, rest assured, we’ve got you covered. Let’s jump right in.

What are the laws around babysitting age requirements?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of legal babysitting age. At the federal level, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, children aged 14 and under are legally permitted to engage in occasional babysitting activities. It’s worth noting that DOL’s Fair Labor Standards Act doesn’t cover babysitting, which sets standards for youth employment. However, individual states may have their own specific minimum age requirements. For instance:

Even in states without explicit laws, there may still be guidelines regarding the minimum age requirements for leaving a child home without an adult. The Child Welfare Information Gateway provides resources for understanding local regulations and ordinances, like this directory of State Contacts & Related Organizations. Since these vary by state, checking local laws is always a good idea.

Assessing maturity for babysitting

Determining if a child is mature enough to babysit without adult supervision goes beyond age. Here are five signs to look for:

  1. Responsibility: A responsible babysitter can follow instructions, follow house rules, and prioritize safety, ensuring the well-being of the children in their care.

  2. Empathy: Babysitters should demonstrate understanding and care for the feelings and needs of the children, fostering a nurturing environment.

  3. Problem-solving skills: Effective babysitters can handle unexpected situations calmly and efficiently, ensuring the safety and security of the children.

  4. Communication: Clear communication is essential in babysitting. Babysitters should be able to express themselves clearly and listen attentively to children and parents.

  5. Basic first aid knowledge: Babysitters with basic first aid knowledge can respond appropriately to minor injuries or emergencies, providing immediate care and comfort to the children.

Other considerations beyond age

Apart from age and emotional maturity, several other factors contribute to readiness for babysitting for teens:

  1. Experience with younger siblings: Prior experience caring for younger siblings can instill confidence and practical skills in potential babysitters.

  2. Completion of babysitting courses: Formal training equips teens with essential knowledge, such as CPR (i.e., Red Cross CPR certification) and essential childcare, babysitting experience, and qualifications.

  3. Recommendations from adults: Positive recommendations from teachers, coaches, or family friends can indicate responsibility and trustworthiness in potential babysitters.

  4. Demonstrated interest in childcare: Teens who show enthusiasm for spending time with children demonstrate a genuine desire to babysit, fostering positive and engaging interactions.

  5. Availability and flexibility: Babysitting children requires flexibility in scheduling and responsibilities. Available and adaptable teens can fulfill the needs of families seeking childcare.

Tips for teenagers looking for babysitting jobs

If you’re looking for babysitting jobs for teenagers and eager to start your babysitting career, here are some tips to help you succeed:

  • Gain experience by volunteering to babysit for family members, friends, or neighbors for short periods of time.

  • Consider taking a babysitting class to enhance your skills and qualifications.

  • Create a profile on babysitting platforms like UrbanSitter (if you are 18 or older) to connect with families seeking reliable caregivers and land a babysitting gig.

  • Be proactive in communicating with parents and demonstrating your enthusiasm and reliability.

  • Continuously seek opportunities to learn and grow in your role as a babysitter.

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FAQs

  1. Q: What is the minimum age requirement to be a babysitter on UrbanSitter?
    A: The minimum age requirement to be a caregiver on UrbanSitter is 18.

  2. Q: How old do children need to be to stay home alone?
     A: While no federal law specifies an age for children to stay home alone, many states have established guidelines. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, these guidelines vary by state. It’s important to check with local authorities or resources such as the Child Welfare Information Gateway. Experts suggest children can typically be left alone for short periods starting at age 12. It may be helpful to try a trial period first.

  3. Q: Can teenagers receive babysitting certification?
    A: Yes, many organizations offer babysitting certification courses for teenagers, covering topics such as CPR, first aid, and basic childcare skills. These certifications can enhance a teenager’s qualifications and requirements for babysitting. Find babysitting classes near you.

Conclusion

When it comes to finding the perfect babysitter, there’s a lot to consider beyond just age. By considering maturity level, experience, and personality, you can find a caregiver who meets your family’s needs and puts your mind at ease. Head to UrbanSitter today to explore profiles of qualified babysitters in your area and simplify your search. Related: What should I look for in a babysitter?

How to Book a Babysitter Using an App

UrbanSitter booking

Scheduling in-home childcare has never been easier. Thanks to babysitter apps and websites, it’s easier to identify qualified babysitters and check their individual availability. Using a babysitting app is a fast and accessible booking method when you know how to walk through the process.

Find the Right App

When choosing a babysitter app, not all are created equal. Look for platforms that prioritize safety and reliability. Opt for apps that conduct thorough background checks and vetting procedures and offer parent reviews. UrbanSitter, one of the leading babysitter apps, excels in providing a curated selection of experienced and trusted caregivers. UrbanSitter’s trust and safety policies ensure that every sitter undergoes rigorous screening, giving you peace of mind knowing your children are in capable hands.

Establish the Details

Once you’ve selected the right app, it’s time to define your childcare needs. Specify the type of care required, such as a date night sitter, backup care, part-time or full-time, or recurring help, and don’t forget to include the length of service, date, and time. Provide basic information about your children, such as their ages, interests, and specific needs. By providing detailed instructions, you ensure potential babysitters have all the information they need to offer exceptional care.

Review Qualified Babysitters

After submitting your booking request, review the profiles of qualified babysitters who match your criteria. Take note of their childcare experience, qualifications, recommendations from friends, and parent reviews. Many babysitter apps allow you to communicate with potential sitters beforehand, ask questions, and assess compatibility. Don’t hesitate to inquire about certifications, childcare philosophies, and emergency procedures.

Confirm the Service

Once you’ve found the perfect sitter, it’s time to confirm the service. Double-check your booking details, including the date, time, and hourly rate. Some apps may require payment upfront, while others allow you to pay directly through the platform once the booking is completed. Confirming the scheduled service ensures that you and the babysitter are on the same page, minimizing the risk of misunderstandings. An added convenience of using UrbanSitter is that you can pay the babysitters with just a tap in the app at the end of the job, so you’re not fumbling for cash or exact change.

Additional Services and Features

Many babysitting apps offer more than just childcare services. You can often find options for senior care, pet care, and other household services, making these apps versatile for various needs. Whether you have last-minute babysitting needs or require someone for pet sitting, these apps provide a convenient solution. Additionally, they often include features to help you find prospective babysitters or review babysitter profiles, ensuring you select the most suitable candidate for your family.

Conclusion

A babysitter app or website can streamline finding and booking child care services for busy parents. Look for apps that integrate social networks and mutual friends recommendations, as these features can enhance your trust in the selected caregiver. Take advantage of the available tools and features, and enjoy the peace of mind of finding the perfect sitter for your family’s needs.

Don’t wait—join UrbanSitter now and discover how easy finding a reliable babysitter can be! 

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Is UrbanSitter Reliable? Here’s The Scoop

is urbansitter reliable

When it comes to choosing the best care option, whether for your child or any other type of care, trust and reliability are non-negotiable. At UrbanSitter, we’ve put our emphasis on making reliability our hallmark. You might be wondering, ‘Is UrbanSitter reliable?’ In this article, we’ll dive into why UrbanSitter is the name you can confidently count on for all your care needs.

Reliability by the Numbers

Reliability is at the core of what we do at UrbanSitter. We have the numbers to back it up:

  • Available in more than 60 cities: Coverage where you live and travel.
  • Over 1 million providers: Browse a diverse community of caregivers across the U.S., speaking more than 25 languages.
  • Backup in 2 minutes or less: Average response to a last-minute job in most areas.
  • 4.8 Stars on the App Store: Over 13,000 families and caregivers have shared their reviews.
  • Support 7 Days a Week: Our award-winning member services team is here to guarantee the very best in trust and safety.

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Setting a new bar for privacy and security

  • Safe Messaging: The contact information on your profile is only shared with another member once the booking is confirmed.
  • Member Authenticity: All families go through an authentication process before they can book caregivers.
  • Payment Protection: UrbanSitter works with industry leaders to ensure your information is stored safely and payments are processed securely.
  • Industry-Respected Trust and Safety Partners: UrbanSitter partners with several different Trust and Safety companies in the above initiatives, including Checkr and Stripe.

Your trusted community hub

  • Top picks from your community: Get trusted recommendations from families in your area based on who’s popular in your neighborhood, kid’s school, and thousands of other community groups.
  • Working smarter for you: We work smarter for you. Our 40-factor algorithm is the key to quickly pinpointing the best caregiver matches and fast-tracking your search. Say goodbye to months of uncertainty and hello to reliable hiring in days.
  • No commitments: Search and post jobs without paying a cent. Browse through caregiver profiles and only add on a membership if you find someone great.

Reliability policy

Our commitment to reliability extends to every aspect of the booking process, and we have a clear Reliability Policy in place to ensure the integrity and quality of our platform. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Cancellations: Life is unpredictable, and we understand that sometimes cancellations are unavoidable. In case of emergencies, we urge both families and caregivers to officially cancel bookings through UrbanSitter as soon as possible. This minimizes inconvenience to the other party and allows for alternative arrangements.
  • No-Shows: Failing to show up for a booked appointment, especially without communication, creates a negative experience for the other party. To address this, we encourage prompt reporting of no-show incidents. You can report these issues by contacting UrbanSitter Support at [email protected] or by flagging the member’s profile. 

When cancellations or no-shows happen, our friendly member services team dives in. Using all available information, they thoroughly review the situation to understand how it might have affected our members’ experiences and the overall platform’s integrity.

Taking the Leap

At UrbanSitter, trust and reliability are the cornerstones of our services. Join us today and experience the difference of trustworthy, dependable care. Your journey to reliable care starts here!

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“UrbanSitter is my go-to for quality sitters! I can book weeks ahead of time or easily find a same day sitter when in a bind. I even hired a part-time nanny during a day care transition. Customer service is helpful and the baby sitters respond in a timely manner.”
urbansitter testimonial
Laura F.
mom of two
Rated 5 out of 5

A Closer Look at Care.com vs. UrbanSitter

care.com vs urbansitter

Are you torn between Care.com vs. UrbanSitter in your quest to find the best caregiver? Let’s delve into the details and understand why UrbanSitter stands out. With a strong focus on trust, safety, local connections, and an array of exclusive perks, we prioritize the well-being and happiness of your loved ones. Explore the difference for a superior care experience.

Care.com vs. UrbanSitter

CategoriesCare.comUrbanSitter
Community Caregiver RecommendationsNot offeredSee who’s hired and loved by your Facebook friends, neighbors, and local community, including parents from your child’s school
Detailed Profile StatisticsBasic caregiver information, like ratings, certifications, and verificationsComprehensive caregiver profiles with statistics like the number of repeat families, bookings completed, and average response time
Background CheckStandard background check, plus additional checks available for purchaseStandard plus additional background checks, which caregivers must clear annually
Last-Minute BookingsVaries; not tailored for urgencyAverage response time under 2 minutes for last-minute requests in most cities
Booking & PaymentFamily must message caregivers to schedule booking and coordinate payment detailsConvenient online booking and payment through UrbanSitter’s app or site. Option to pay cash
Member Services SupportAvailability may varyAward-winning member services team available 7 days a week
Caregiver Profile VideosLimitedCaregiver profile videos help parents quickly screen candidates for a personality fit

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Why choose UrbanSitter?

Now, let’s delve deeper into why UrbanSitter is the right choice for your caregiving needs.

  • Quality Over Quantity: UrbanSitter prioritizes quality over quantity. While Care.com boasts millions of caregivers, it can be overwhelming to navigate the options. UrbanSitter focuses on curating a select group of trusted caregivers to make it easier to find a great match.

  • Trust and Safety: UrbanSitter stands out with its trust and safety features, with caregivers undergoing annual background checks and a profile review. This process gives parents peace of mind, knowing their children are in capable and trustworthy hands.

  • Personal Connections: There’s nothing more powerful than a recommendation from a friend. UrbanSitter lets you see your friends and neighbors’ favorite caregivers, so you don’t feel like you’re hiring a stranger.

  • Local Expertise: UrbanSitter emphasizes local expertise, boasting a deep network of caregivers in your neighborhood. This means you can easily find a caregiver who’s already familiar with your community’s unique needs, which may not always be the case with other child care services.

  • Easy Booking and Payment: UrbanSitter streamlines the booking process. You can swiftly check a babysitter’s availability, read reviews from other parents, and make payments directly through the UrbanSitter app or website. No need to deal with messages back-and-forth, cash, or invoicing. It’s all conveniently handled in one place, simplifying your parenting journey.

We’ve got you covered.

Your loved ones deserve the very best, so when choosing between UrbanSitter and Care.com, the choice is clear: UrbanSitter. We prioritize trust, safety, and the personal connection between your family and caregiver. Whether you’re in need of child care, pet care, senior care, or any other caregiving service, UrbanSitter is the ultimate choice. Join our community today and experience caregiving that consistently exceeds expectations.

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Does UrbanSitter Cost Money? What you need to know

is urbansitter reliable

If you’ve ever pondered questions like “Does UrbanSitter cost money?” or “Is UrbanSitter free?” you’ve come to the right spot. Whether you’re a parent seeking dependable care or a caregiver exploring opportunities, UrbanSitter is here to provide clarity on the price, value, and membership model.

Membership options for families and care-seekers:

It is absolutely free to join UrbanSitter, post jobs, browse caregivers in your area, and read through caregiver profiles. 

Once you’re ready to book, UrbanSitter offers flexible membership options to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a babysitter, nanny, or other household help, we’ve got you covered. 

  1. Monthly Plan: This plan automatically renews on a monthly basis from your original billing date.
  2. Quarterly Plan: Enjoy the flexibility of this plan, which renews every three months from your original billing date.
  3. Annual Plan: Our annual plan offers you peace of mind by renewing on an annual basis from your original billing date.

And the best part? You have control at your fingertips. You can view your next billing date, cancel, or switch to a different membership plan anytime you like, all from your Settings page. UrbanSitter puts you in the driver’s seat of your childcare journey.

How it works for caregivers:

It is absolutely free to join UrbanSitter and view the Job Board to see opportunities in your area before becoming a paid member.

Becoming an approved caregiver on UrbanSitter is a straightforward process designed to ensure safety and trust within our community. Unlock unlimited access to job opportunities in just a few simple steps:

  1. Create a profile: Tell us about your caregiving experience, set your schedule, add rates, and where you’re willing to work.
  2. Add a membership: Get an entire year of access to amazing job opportunities and a background check on your profile for less than the cost of one fancy latte a month.
  3. Complete your background check: Once you’ve purchased your annual membership, it’s essential to complete your background check through our trusted provider, Checkr. Once cleared, your profile displays a background check badge for one year.
  4. Apply for babysitting jobs: Browse the job board to apply for positions, then accept jobs with a tap. Our babysitting app helps you job hunt on the go.

Just a quick heads-up: the annual membership fee is non-refundable. You can keep tabs on your membership status and find your next billing date in the account settings. We’ll also shoot you a reminder about your upcoming membership renewal 30 days beforehand. No surprises here!

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Membership perks for families:

  • Access to Vetted Caregivers: When you become an UrbanSitter member, you gain access to a network of highly vetted and trusted caregivers. Our rigorous screening process ensures you find the best sitters and nannies for your loved ones.
  • Safety and Reliability: We prioritize safety above all else. UrbanSitter provides features like reviews, background checks, and references to ensure that you can hire with confidence.
  • Convenience and Flexibility: Finding childcare is a breeze with UrbanSitter. You can browse caregiver profiles, read reviews, and book appointments at your convenience, all through our user-friendly platform.
  • Savings and Exclusive Offers: As a member, you can access special discounts and promotions. UrbanSitter aims to provide exceptional value to our loyal customers.
  • Community and Support: Our community is not just about caregivers and care seekers; it’s a place to share experiences and advice and find a support system when you need it most.

Membership perks for caregivers:

  • Unlimited access: Caregivers can utilize booking, messaging, and payment tools to efficiently find, schedule, and get paid for their care jobs.
  • Top sitters earn $1,000/week: Work as often as you want: Full-time, part-time, or occasional babysitting jobs. You set your own schedule and rates for your babysitting work.
  • Keep 100% of your pay: While other babysitting agencies or sites might skim your paycheck, UrbanSitter never takes a cut of your pay. You keep 100% of your earnings.
  • The best babysitting jobs: From after-school babysitting jobs to full-time nannying, the perfect job is waiting for you. Make a profile to start browsing job descriptions today!
  • Safety is our priority: Every parent must verify their identity before booking a babysitting job on UrbanSitter. Rest assured, our Member Services Team is here for you 7 days a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How much does UrbanSitter cost? UrbanSitter’s cost depends on your chosen membership plan. We offer monthly, quarterly, and annual options to cater to various budgets.
  2. Is UrbanSitter free for sitters? It is free to browse the Job Board, but to apply for a job, you must buy a membership and become an approved caregiver with a complete profile and cleared background check. 
  3. How does UrbanSitter make money? UrbanSitter charges a membership fee for access to our services, which include background checks, trust and safety features, customer support, booking and payment tools, and the convenience of a reliable platform for families and caregivers alike.

Is UrbanSitter worth it?

In a world where peace of mind and quality care are top priorities, UrbanSitter is your trusted resource. So, get started today and be part of a community that values trust, safety, and convenience.

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Why you should trust UrbanSitter (Is it legit?)

is urbansitter legit

At UrbanSitter, we’re all about trust, safety, and simplicity. We offer reliable solutions for all your child care and household needs in one place, while providing opportunities to earn income doing what you love. Wondering, ‘Is UrbanSitter legit?’ We’ll show you why we’re the trusted choice you’ve been looking for.

Trust and safety is our top priority:

  • Accessible Member Support: We’re here for you 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
  • Background Checks: Every sitter, nanny, and care provider is background-checked, and the UrbanSitter team manually reviews every caregiver profile to meet our standards.
  • Privacy and security: UrbanSitter provides safe messaging, identity verification, and payment protection for all members.
  • Caregiver Insights: Get the full picture with insights on each caregiver’s performance, including booking history, repeat families, and response time.
  • Candid Reviews: Read through valuable, verified reviews and recommendations from families and caregivers.

Tried, true and trusted

UrbanSitter sets the standard for care.

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Confidence in every profile: Our commitment to your security

Every caregiver profile is thoroughly reviewed by our trained team of Trust and Safety specialists, not just a computer.

  • Annual Background Checks:  A background check badge on their profile indicates that the nanny, sitter, or caregiver has cleared the following in the last 13 months: Sex Offender Search, Global Watchlist Search, County Criminal Search, and National Criminal Search.
  • Responds Quickly to New Families: Caregivers with this badge typically respond in 24 hours or less to new families.
  • Reliability: Caregivers with this badge maintain a 90% or better completion rate on all bookings.

Elevating standards: privacy and security

We’ve set the bar high when it comes to safeguarding your information and ensuring your peace of mind.

  • Safe Messaging: The contact information on your profile is only shared with another member once the booking is confirmed.
  • Member Authenticity: All families go through an authentication process before they can book caregivers.
  • Payment Protection: UrbanSitter works with industry leaders to ensure your information is stored safely and payments are processed securely.
  • Industry-Respected Trust and Safety Partners: UrbanSitter partners with several different Trust and Safety companies in the above initiatives, including Checkr and Stripe.

Meet our supportive member services team

  • 7 Days a Week: Our award-winning member services team is here 7 days a week to guarantee the very best in trust and safety.
  • Upgraded Background Checks: You can request an upgraded background check or a driving record check package for a caregiver. Email us for options and pricing.
  • Booking Support: We provide support for payment, reliability, and member concerns for every booking scheduled through UrbanSitter.

We’re on a mission to solve care challenges one family at a time. It’s time to meet your neighborhood’s favorite babysitters, nannies, and caregivers, a.k.a your all-around lifesavers. You want to be sure that the service you opt for is not only reliable but also genuinely committed to your family’s safety and well-being.

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Related: UrbanSitter Reviews from families, sitters and caregivers

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★★★★★ 5/5

Care.com vs. Sittercity vs. UrbanSitter: A Comprehensive Guide

care.com vs sittercity vs urbansitter

Finding the right caregiver for your family is no small feat. You want a service that’s not only reliable but also aligns with your unique needs. We’re here to help you decide between Care.com vs. Sittercity vs. UrbanSitter with a detailed comparison of the services. Let’s dive in!

Care.com vs. Sittercity vs. UrbanSitter

FeatureCare.comSittercityUrbanSitter
Review SystemUser Ratings & ReviewsUser Ratings & Reviews

User Ratings & Reviews

Plus, see favorite caregivers of your friends, parents at school, and neighbors.

Types of CareChild care, senior, pet, household, and tutorsChild care, senior, pet, and tutorsChild care, senior, pet, household, and tutors
Background Checks

Caregivers are required to complete and pass a background check (CareCheck).

Upgraded background checks are available for purchase.

Not required.

Optional for families to purchase for a caregiver.

Caregivers are required to pass an annual background through trust and safety leader, Checkr.

Upgraded background checks are available for purchase.

Price of ServiceFree basic access. Membership purchase is required to access premium features.Free basic access. Membership purchase is required to access premium features.Free basic access. Membership purchase is required to access premium features.
Booking & PaymentsFamily must message caregivers to schedule booking and coordinate payment details.Book online. Family responsible for coordinating payment with caregiver.Convenient online booking and payment through UrbanSitter’s app or site. Option to pay cash.
Response TimeVariesVariesAvg. Response < 2 mins for last-minute requests in most cities
SupportCustomer Support AvailableCustomer Support AvailableAward-Winning Member Services Team
Profile EndorsementsNo specific endorsement system.No specific endorsement system.Profile endorsements from friends and community members

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Why UrbanSitter stands out:

  • Community Connections: UrbanSitter values trust and community. Our platform lets you see who your friends, fellow parents from school, local parenting groups, community members, and even your neighbors have booked before. These personal connections add trust and familiarity to your search, making it easier to find the perfect caregiver for your family.
  • Detailed Profile Statistics: We believe in transparency, so our caregivers’ profiles come with essential statistics you’ll want to know. You can access information like the number of repeat families they’ve worked with and the total number of bookings they’ve completed. Plus, you’ll have insight into their average response time, which is especially handy when you’re in a time crunch.
  • Mandatory Background Checks: Safety is our priority. Every caregiver must pass a background check annually to work on UrbanSitter. Sittercity does not even have a mandatory background check for its caregivers. UrbanSitter goes above and beyond to ensure you connect with trusted caregivers.
  • Last-Minute Bookings: Life can get chaotic, and sometimes you need a caregiver right away. UrbanSitter excels in this area. In most cities, our average response time for a last-minute request is less than two minutes. We’re there when you need us most, ensuring you have the flexibility and support you deserve.
  • Effortless Booking and Payments
    UrbanSitter helps reduce the work that comes after finding the right caregiver. Instead of coordinating schedules and payment details over messages, families can book care for specific dates and times and pay with a tap, making it easier to manage care without extra follow-up.
  • Award-Winning Member Services Team: We take pride in our member services team, available 7 days a week. If you ever have questions concerns, or need assistance, our team is here to help. Our dedication to exceptional customer service is another way we put our families first.
  • Profile Videos: Getting to know your caregiver’s personality is crucial, especially when booking at the last minute. That’s why we offer profile videos from our caregivers. These videos give you a glimpse into their personality and help you make a more informed decision when selecting the perfect caregiver for your family.

Your friendly neighborhood choice

But let’s not just take our word for it; let’s hear what others are saying about UrbanSitter:

iParentingLife raves about UrbanSitter: “The sitters that you will find in your personal search results are as close as you can get to word-of-mouth recommendations from parents who are or may be connected to you socially within your neighborhood. You will also get full access to feedback from these parents, which we think is really very helpful when making your decision”.

We’re proud to be recognized for our commitment to safety, transparency, and community connections.

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In conclusion, UrbanSitter is here to make your caregiver search easy, trustworthy, and enjoyable. When comparing care.com vs. Sittercity vs. UrbanSitter, remember we’re not just a service; we’re your neighbors, friends, and community members who understand the importance of family. Your neighborhood has your back when finding the perfect caregiver for your family. Sign up today and discover the care you need.

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Back to School: The Nanny Conundrum

how much to pay a house sitter

whitney_tang_nanny_magContributed by guest author Whitney Tang, Executive Editor of Nanny Magazine

It’s September, which means hordes of children have headed off to school, many for the first time. As you gear up for that first day of meeting the teachers and kissing your munchkin goodbye, a momentary thought might pass through your mind: What in the world will your nanny do for these three or so odd hours every day? Not paying her is out of the question. You need your nanny to be on call for all those sick days, snow days, and, heaven forbid, any emergencies. But should you really be paying her to sit around your house all morning with nothing to do? Here are some things you might want to consider to maximize your nanny’s time on the clock.

Keep Her Busy

Depending on where school is located, your nanny might not have the flexibility to go all the way back home during school hours. This is a great opportunity to ask her to pick up your child’s much-needed rain boots or craft supplies. Keep in mind that just because your child isn’t in the house doesn’t mean it’s your nanny’s downtime. School hours are the perfect time for your nanny to get caught up on your kids’ laundry and other child-related chores around the house, such as meal prep. Do you already have this covered? Let your nanny invest some time in her own professional development. Register her for an online course to enrich her childcare skills or hook her up with some great nanny-related reading to help her sharpen her skills and get new ideas to better take care of your children. The ways to make the time while your child is in class count toward your nanny’s paycheck are endless.

But Don’t Keep Her Too Busy

Keep in mind that your nanny’s top priority is your child. Even with some “free” time, you can rest assured that she is most likely planning the next great museum outing or tomorrow’s very messy (but educational!) science experiment. Good nannies rarely stop brainstorming new activities, planning new adventures, or educating themselves on caring for your child. Let your nanny use this open time to rest, think, and plot. Even the best minds need a few minutes away from the constant commotion to come up with truly great ideas.

Encourage Conversations

Do you really need eggs for tonight’s dinner but don’t have time to pick them up after work? Don’t be afraid to ask your nanny for some help. But also don’t be upset if she has something else planned. She might be busy picking up craft supplies for the afternoon’s art project or returning the nearly late library book just in time. In order to prevent yourself from becoming annoyed and your nanny from feeling pressured, be sure to open up various communication outlets. As long as a conversation is always going, each party will have better expectations for the school days ahead.

It’s Simple

Your nanny has more scheduling flexibility to take care of errands and chores when her charges are not in her direct care. Make the most of the time but don’t underestimate her. Just because your kids aren’t with her doesn’t mean she isn’t busy with their care. How do you keep your nanny busy when your kids are away at school?

If you’re looking for an after school nanny, review these tips for finding the right one for your family!

Whitney Tang, Executive Editor of Nanny Magazine is a freelance writer, a graphic design artist, and most importantly, a nanny! But the best part of her day involves a lot less typing and a lot more mess making, with glitter and flour being the usual suspects!

Find trusted nannies near you at UrbanSitter.com.

What Is An Au Pair? Pros, Cons & How To Find A Great One

What is an au pair? An au pair is a student between the ages of 18-26 who comes to the United States as part of a cultural exchange program and agrees to provide full-time child care in exchange for housing and a weekly stipend. For some families who need live-in child care, hosting an au pair may be an ideal solution. Below are some of the benefits and limitations so you can decide if this is the right in-home childcare choice for you and your family.

The Unique Advantages of Au Pairs

There are several pros to choosing an au pair for your childcare needs, including the following:

  • Au Pairs Provide Affordable Care
    Because au pair programs are government-sponsored, costs are regulated. According to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, au pairs are paid a weekly stipend equivalent to the U.S. federal minimum wage. The stipend is based per family, so you do not pay more for additional kids. Keep in mind there are some upfront costs you will incur. These costs include the agency application fees and the placement fees (which cover recruiting, screening, paperwork processing, some travel expenses, visa, and training). Once they arrive, there are additional expenses outside of the weekly stipend. These costs include providing room and board, meals, paid vacation time, and a $500 educational stipend. Even with these additional fees, au pair care is much more affordable than live-in or live-out nannies or babysitters.
  • Flexible Hours, In-home Child Care
    For those who work long or irregular hours or need an extra set of hands, flexible child care is a top priority. Few providers can match the flexibility offered by au pairs. According to ICEF Monitor, a market research firm for the international education market, au pairs in the U.S. can work up to 45 hours per week. While they may not work more than 10 hours per day, as a host family, you can coordinate your own childcare schedule week to week.
  • Exposure to a New Culture
    Inviting a foreign student to live with your family is a wonderful way to introduce your children to a new culture or language. One example is that, according to AuPair Clearinghouse, which reviews and compares United States au pair agencies, there’s a growing trend to hire Chinese caretakers. They attribute the trend to the increasing popularity of Mandarin as a language option in secondary schools. As well as the appeal of having a Mandarin speaker in your home to help your kids learn the language.

Au Pair Limitations

While there are many attractive advantages to having an au pair care for your kids, there are limitations, too, including:

  • Limited Child Care Experience
    Au pairs are students (18-26 years old) who travel to the U.S. for educational and cultural experiences. Though they are required to complete some childcare instruction, their training and experience is limited. Simply put, they are not professional childcare providers, nor are they necessarily interested in pursuing a career in child care. For this reason, they are often better for families who do not require infant or special needs care.
  • Short-Term Child Care Solution
    Per their contracts and visa requirements, they usually live with a host parent for one year (though you can apply for a program extension through the U.S. Department of State). If you need someone longer term—and don’t relish the thought of finding a new solution in a year—a live-in nanny may be a better fit.
  • Inability to Meet in Advance
    They are carefully screened, and you can interview candidates via phone, email, and video chat. Still, you cannot truly meet face-to-face or have a trial period before committing to a relationship.
  • Language and Cultural Barriers
    In addition to the limitations above, they are students learning a new culture and often a new language as they get to know your family and understand its unique needs. It can be a tricky adjustment period for both sides.

What is the Difference Between an Au Pair and a Nanny?

One of the most important distinctions between an au pair and a live-in nanny is that an au pair is a student you host, and a nanny is an employee you hire.

For a deeper dive into the differences, read our article, How to Choose Between a Nanny, Daycare, and Au Pair. If you decide to host an au pair, there are several agencies approved by the U.S. Department of State that can connect you. If you decide a nanny is the better fit and childcare experience, word of mouth, job boards, and online services, such as UrbanSitter, can help you find and meet nannies in your local area who may be just right for your family’s needs. The choice is yours!

Looking for a nanny? Join UrbanSitter to browse profiles, sort by pay rate, and book jobs online.