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Parentpedia
Choosing a Babysitter
What Experts Say
All you want from a babysitter is someone you trust and who your kids will like. Simple, right? But as anyone who's tried to find a sitter knows, simple is not necessarily easy. Fortunately, with a little leg work, you should be able to find one.
First, ask for references from friends, families, and other trusted resources. Community organizations like the YMCA and the Red Cross have CPR and babysitter training programs, so they're a great place to get names of potential sitters. You might also try an online agency, such as Sittercity.com, where you can search for prescreened babysitters in your area.
Next, interview potential sitters in your home, even if you go through an agency. Not only will you find out if they're qualified to babysit your kids, you'll also be able to see how they get along with them. DrSpock.com suggests that you pay special attention to a candidate's demeanor to judge whether she's taking the job seriously and will follow instructions and house rules.
Once you've chosen a sitter, ask her to do a test run while you're at home. By seeing the sitter in action, you'll have a better idea of how she'll handle the job when you're not there.
Last but not least, how to keep this gem once you've found her? Pay well and shower her with free food. It's well worth an extra pint of Chunky Monkey to lure her back the next time you need a night out. Easy.
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