Five Things to Do Before Your Babysitter Arrives

Booking a babysitter for the first time can feel like a big step. Even if you’re very ready for a night out, it’s completely normal to feel a little nervous about leaving your littlies with someone new.

You may find yourself wondering how much information to leave, what your babysitter needs to know and if you should write down every possible scenario that could occur between dinner and bedtime.

The reassuring answer is that you don’t need to prepare a household operations manual. A few useful details, a quick tour and an honest explanation of your littlies’ usual routine will give your babysitter everything they need.

Here are five things to organise before your babysitter arrives.

1. Write down the important details
Leave your mobile number, the address where you’ll be and the contact details of someone nearby who can help if needed. It’s also useful to write down your home address, because someone visiting your house may not remember it in an emergency.

Include any allergies, medications or medical information your babysitter should know, as well as instructions about who they should contact first if they have a question.

You can also let your babysitter know how often you would like an update. Some parents love receiving a quick photo after dinner or at bedtime, while others are happy to hear that everyone is tucked in and then put their phone away for the night.

2. Explain what’s happening with dinner
Let your babysitter know what your littlies will be eating, where everything is kept and how to prepare or heat it.

It’s also worth mentioning which snacks are allowed and if there is anything they shouldn’t have. Littlies can be very convincing when explaining that Mum always allows ice cream before bed, particularly once Mum is safely out of the house.

If your babysitter will be arriving after dinner, leave a few approved snack options ready and explain what they can offer if somebody suddenly says they’re starving.

3. Share the bedtime routine
Bedtime is often the part parents worry about most, especially if their littlie has a very particular routine involving one special book, a certain night light and a drink bottle placed at precisely the correct spot.

Run through the usual bedtime, where to find pyjamas and what normally happens before lights out. Let your babysitter know how many stories are allowed, if the bedroom door stays open and what usually helps if your little is having trouble settling.

The evening may not follow the routine perfectly, and that’s okay. Giving your babysitter a familiar guide helps your littlies know what to expect and makes bedtime easier for everyone.

4. Find the favourite comfort item
Track down the special teddy, blanket, dummy or bedtime toy before you leave.

A comfort item can make a big difference when a little is spending the evening with someone new, particularly around bedtime. Finding it early also avoids a late night search for Bunny, who was last spotted somewhere near the trampoline.

If there’s a backup comfort item hidden in a cupboard, now is an excellent time to reveal its location.

5. Give your babysitter a quick house tour
Show your babysitter where to find the first aid kit, spare nappies, bathroom and anything they may need during the night.

If they’ll be preparing or heating food, quickly explain how to use the microwave or oven. Point out tricky locks, alarm instructions, pet requirements and any doors or areas that need to remain closed.

You should also explain what to do if someone knocks at the door and where your babysitter can find a torch if the power goes out. It only takes a few minutes, but it means they won’t need to search through every kitchen drawer later.

You’re allowed to enjoy your night out

Once you’ve covered these five things, your babysitter will have the information they need to care for your littles while you’re away.

You don’t need to call every 20 minutes, and you certainly don’t need to feel guilty about going out. Booking a babysitter might be new for your family, but it can soon become something your littlies look forward to as well.

Coastal Babysitters helps families across the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and Byron Bay find friendly babysitting support for dinners, weddings, events, holidays and those very necessary nights out.

If you’re thinking about booking a babysitter for the first time, our friendly team of mums is here to answer your questions and help you feel comfortable every step of the way.