OH!: Interviewing A Babysitter

Wouldn’t parenting be better if post partum school-like curriculum courses consisting of topics such as “How to Find a Babysitter” were offered? Truthfully, most of us rely on neighbors, friends, family, and sometimes fate to find sitters. Even with new options, like Babysitters.com, parents need to be organized and prepared to interview candidates.

There are always two facts to consider: the age of your children and the life experiences of the sitter you are interviewing.

QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN INTERVIEWING A YOUTHFUL SITTER

• Name, Age, Address, Phone number (home and mobile), and minimum 2 references
• What is your hourly rate?
• What time do you need to be home on weekdays and weekends?
• Do you have a driver’s license?
• Have you taken any CPR or Red Cross Safe Sitter courses?
• Do you have a job or any activities after school?
• Do you smoke?
• Do you have any pet allergies?

QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN INTERVIEWING A MATURE SITTER

• What training have you had? (Verify her answers with the appropriate organizations)
• Do you smoke?
• Are you allergic to pets?
• Do you have any convictions or pending charges on your driving record or criminal record?
• May I have your social security number and your signature on a waiver which enables me to check your background?
• What additional services do you provide as a sitter? (Laundry? Cooking? Cleaning? Homework help for school-aged children?)
• What is your fee? (Inquire about weekend and overnight package prices too)
• What is your philosophy about disciplining children?
• What are your personal experiences with parenting or supervising children?
• What are your experiences with other families you sit for? May I contact them?
• What is the earliest/latest time of day I can phone you?
• How often do you check your voice mail?
• What are your personal career goals?
• What ages and stages are you least / most comfortable with?

Once you’ve selected an appropriate candidate(s), you’ll want to arrange for her to meet your children and spouse / partner. I suggest inviting the candidate over for dessert and coffee. At this time of the day, an hour-long “second interview” is usually interesting and insightful as children aren’t typically on their best behavior; an extra set of helping hands are welcome. You may consider asking the candidate to handle the kids while you and your spouse / partner tackle the kitchen clean up.

After you’ve hired the perfect sitter, ask your children how they like her and what she does while you aren’t home. You should also check with the sitter to see if she is happy or has any questions or challenges that need to be addressed.