As a parent of three, I have learned that peace of mind comes from the fact that you are prepared.
When you go out and leave your
children in the care of a baby sitter, be sure that all important
information is supplied.
Where you are going and how to
reach you in an emergency, a cell or pager number if available and when
you will be home should always be given. Emergency numbers can save
precious time if the need should arise. If you have another family member,
neighbor or close friend nearby, leave their names and numbers as well.
Other questions you should ask
yourself:
Is my child on any medications?
Are there any food allergies?
Is your child allowed to watch television or play video games or computer?
What and how much is allowed?
Does your child get a bedtime snack? If so, what is allowed?
What time is bedtime?
Are there any other parts of my children's routines that the baby sitter
needs to be aware of?
Make a list to remind yourself
of the information you need to verbally convey and fill out a baby sitter
information sheet with all the information that the sitter should have
written down.
Here are some sheets that you can print out.
Two on a page (for baby)
Two on a page (for children)
One on a page (for baby)
One on a page (for children)
The 'one on a page'
leaves the other side blank for parents who may need more space for
special instructions.
Text Only
This is not a complete list for
leaving your children with a baby sitter, just some pointers about leaving
written information. You know your child best and will know what is most
important when leaving your child with someone else. A new baby sitter
will also need more "filling in" than someone that is familiar with your
child.
Start with the basics, add your
special instructions and then go out knowing that your baby sitter has the
information he or she needs to care for your children!
P.S. Don't be afraid to do what
I do... Call home halfway through the night just to be sure that things
are ok. Some people may roll their eyes or shake their heads, but if it
helps you to enjoy your time out, go ahead and don't worry what
they think!
The Ultimate Baby-Sitter's Handbook:
(So You Wanna Make Tons of Money)
by Debra Mostow Zakarin, Ruta Daugavietis (Illustrator), Kristin Lock |
The American Red Cross First Aid and Safety Handbook
by Kathleen A. Handal (Contributor), Elizabeth H. Dole |
|
More Parenting
){kind=link}
){kind=link}
){kind=link}
){kind=link}