Prepping the Babysitter and Children For Your Absence

One way to ease the transition to the new babysitter is for children to meet a new sitter well in advance of the evening out, if they do not already know the person. If the child is willing they can play with or be read to by this new person, but it is not absolutely necessary. Just listening to the parent having a social visit with the babysitter is enough. The day of the date the parent can talk to the child about things that are expected to happen when the babysitter is there, such as bedtimes and bedtime routines. It is also good if the babysitter can arrive early and for the parents to be ready early so there is no breathlessly rushing out the door.

Before the babysitter arrives, the parent should have prepared written instructions to prompt their own memory as they are talking to the babysitter and to help the sitter to remember things also. First and most important, there should be emergency telephone numbers, and a contingency plan for if parents cannot be reached, i.e. calling a near grandparent. They should know where a flashlight can be found if the power goes out. They should know how to operate any equipment they may need to use such as stoves, microwaves, televisions, and telephones. It is also good if the children hear the parents telling the sitter their expectations for allowed snacks for the children, allowed activities including television programs that may or may not be watched, and when bedtime is.

Bedtime routines are one area that can go awry without preparation. Perhaps pajamas, bedtime story books, favorite blankets or toys or other things the child needs to go peacefully to sleep should be set out ahead of time. If a child's routine always proceeds in a certain order, like brush teeth, put on pajamas, read story, and wind up the music-box, then it is best if the babysitter can stick to the child's expectations. They should know which lights to turn off or leave on and whether to leave the bedroom door open or close it.

With a little thought and advanced planning, all parties concerned - the parents, the babysitter, and the children-can have a more comfortable time. A good experience the first time with a new babysitter will ensure that the children will accept their parent's absence next time with equanimity. The babysitter will also have an easier time of it and will be happier to return.

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