Whether you’re a local family juggling work, school, and everything in between, or you’re soaking up some much-needed holiday time on the Gold Coast or Byron Bay, handing over care of your kids to someone else is a big deal.
At Coastal Babysitters, we get asked one question more than any other:
“How do I know if the babysitter is actually a good fit for our family?”
It’s a fair question. Because while anyone can technically watch the kids, that doesn’t mean they’re going to click with your family or help your night run smoothly.
Here are the 7 signs we’ve seen time and time again that show you’ve found the right sitter, not just someone who’s good on paper, but someone you’ll actually want back again.
1. They Call Before the Job, and Actually Sound Like a Real Person
You know that feeling when someone calls and you can tell straight away they’ve got it covered? That’s what we want for every parent.
A great sitter doesn’t wait until they knock on your door to introduce themselves. They pick up the phone the day before (by 5pm if they’re one of ours) to chat, get to know your child, confirm details, and answer any of your last-minute questions.
What to look for: They sound confident, friendly, and genuinely interested in your child, not just ticking boxes.
2. Your Kids Warm to Them (Even If They’re Usually Shy)
Not every child is going to run up for a cuddle on first meeting, and that’s okay. But a good sitter will know how to gently build connection. They’ll get down on your child’s level, ask a few thoughtful questions, and come prepared with something fun to do.
We had one family holidaying in Byron Bay recently say, “Our daughter usually hides behind our legs for the first 20 minutes. But this time, she was painting within five.”
What to look for: Your child engages, feels safe, and the energy in the room shifts in a good way.
3. They Show Up Early (and Bring the Fun with Them)
Being on time is one thing. Being 10 minutes early, with a calm energy and a basket of activities, tells you this person cares.
Our Coastal Babysitters always arrive early so there’s time for handover, no rushed explanations as you’re walking out the door.
They come prepared with games, crafts, or ideas tailored to your child’s age and personality. No phones. No screens. Just real play.
What to look for: They arrive early, calm, and ready to make your child’s day (or night).
4. They Don’t Just Supervise, They Create a Whole Experience
There’s a huge difference between someone who watches your child and someone who engages with them. The best babysitters bring a sense of adventure, even if it’s just an evening at home.
One Gold Coast mum told us, “We came home to a living room turned into a spaceship, a sleeping toddler, and a little report card of everything they did. It was magic.”
What to look for: Your sitter isn’t just passing time, they’re creating memories.
5. They Respect Your Home Like It’s Their Own
You shouldn’t come home to dirty dishes, toys everywhere, and the sense that chaos ruled while you were out.
A great sitter will tidy up after themselves and the kids, leave things as they found them (or better), and follow your house rules, whether that’s bedtime at 7:30 or no sugar after 5pm.
What to look for: The kids are settled, the house is calm, and nothing feels out of place.
6. They Prioritise Safety Without Needing to Be Told
This one’s non-negotiable. Whether you’re hiring a babysitter in Brisbane, Byron Bay, or the Gold Coast, you want to know they’ve got the serious stuff handled.
At Coastal Babysitters, all our team are trained in first aid, CPR, and anaphylaxis. But beyond the certifications, great sitters are switched on. They ask about allergies, check gates and doors, and never take risks.
What to look for: They’re proactive, prepared, and think two steps ahead when it comes to your child’s safety.
7. You (and Your Kids) Want Them Back Again
This is the real test. If your child is still talking about the sitter the next day, and you feel completely at ease knowing who’s walking through the door, you’ve found your match.
One Brisbane dad said recently, “We’ve had babysitters before, but this was the first time I didn’t check my phone every 20 minutes. We’ll be booking her again next weekend.”
What to look for: You’re already planning your next night out.
What Makes a Great Babysitter?
It’s not just about being good with kids. It’s about showing up early, bringing warmth and energy, creating a calm space, and giving you the confidence to truly enjoy your time away.
Whether you’re a local or visiting the coast on holiday, finding a babysitter who fits your family can feel like a game-changer.
At Coastal Babysitters, that’s exactly what we aim to deliver, trusted care that’s personal, consistent, and genuinely fun for the kids.
Need a sitter you can count on?
We’ve got experienced, hand-picked babysitters across the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Byron Bay ready to bring the fun (and peace of mind) to your family.
Ready to book? Visit coastal babysitter and see what makes our team special!
