How Can I Help My Child Feel Comfortable with a New Babysitter?

Why Might My Child Feel Anxious About a New Babysitter?

Children often thrive on routine and familiarity. Introducing a new babysitter can potentially disrupt their sense of security, leading to feelings of uncertainty. Understanding these emotions is the first step in helping your child adjust.

Even if the new babysitter is a friend or relative, it’s natural for both children and parents to have a few nerves – and if the babysitter is a stranger, those nerves can understandably be magnified. Will everyone get on? Will the bedtime routine go smoothly? What happens if someone can’t sleep?

Experienced babysitters are skilled at putting children at ease quickly once they arrive, but as a parent there are also certain steps you can take to help your children prepare for a new babysitter.

How Can I Introduce the New Babysitter Before the First Visit?

• Talk About the Babysitter: Share the babysitter's name and some background information to make them feel more familiar.

• Show Pictures: Showing your child a photo of the babysitter can do wonders in making your child feel at ease.

• Contact Your Sitter: Reach out to your sitter before by sending them a message. This will enable you to build rapport and share important information about your childcare requirements.

What Can I Do to Make the First Babysitting Experience Positive? 

• Prepare Favourite Activities: Set out toys, books, or games your child enjoys to share with the babysitter.

• Establish a Goodbye Ritual: Create a consistent and reassuring way to say goodbye.

• Keep Goodbyes Short: Prolonged farewells can increase anxiety; keep them brief and positive

If your sitter has been booked through a babysitting website or app like Sitters.co.uk, you can share a few details from their profile with children to help familiarise them with the sitter ahead of their arrival.

Mum and Sitters.co.uk user Michelle says: "The first time we booked a babysitter through Sitters, I built in plenty of time before I needed to be anywhere, just so I could be certain everyone was happy and settled before I went out. As it turned out I needn’t have worried, as the babysitter was fantastic and my daughter took to her straight away, but it made sense to allow that extra time just in case. In reality, they got on so well that at the babysitter’s suggestion, I said goodnight quickly without a fuss and headed out much earlier than expected."

How Should I Communicate House Rules and Routines?

• Write It Down: Provide the babysitter with a written guide to routines, meal times, and bedtime procedures.

• Discuss Expectations: Clearly communicate any specific rules or preferences. 

• Emergency Contacts: Ensure the babysitter has all necessary contact information.

Sitters.co.uk. gives parents the power to share Booking Notes and a Family Profile with their babysitter, so you can book with confidence knowing your sitter truly understands what is important to you.

How Can I Follow Up After the Babysitting Session?

• Talk to Your Child: Ask open-ended questions about their experience.

• Seek Feedback from the Babysitter: Discuss any concerns or highlights from the session.

• Plan for Future Visits: Use the feedback to make any necessary adjustments for next time. With Sitters.co.uk you can leave a review about your sitter. And if you loved them, you can add them to your list of Favourites, so they'll be top of the list for future bookings.

Mum and Sitters.co.uk user Karen says: "We have a shortlist of three babysitters now who my son loves. If I’m heading out, he’s always excited to see them. I know he’s happy and well looked after, so I can relax and enjoy my evening out."

Summary: Easing the Transition to a New Babysitter

Preparing your child for a new babysitter involves open communication, familiarisation, and establishing clear expectations.

By taking these proactive steps, you can help your child feel secure and comfortable, ensuring a positive experience for everyone involved.

Looking for a Trusted Babysitter?

For peace of mind, visit Sitters.co.uk to find experienced, vetted babysitters in your area.