You’ve been asked to babysit! Whether it’s your first time or you’re already a pro, it’s always a good idea to ask the parents a few questions before you get started. This way you can get a feel for the family dynamic, what the parents expect from you, and what their kids’ personalities are like. Not sure what to ask? Here are a few questions to get you started.
42 questions to ask before babysitting:
- How old are the children?
- What are the children’s names?
- What are their routines (mealtimes, bedtimes, etc.)?
- What are their likes and dislikes?
- What allergies do they have?
- How do they usually communicate their needs?
- Are there any medical conditions I should know about?
- How do you discipline the children?
- What bedtime stories/activities do they like?
- Are there any safety issues in the neighborhood that I should be aware of?
- Who are the emergency contacts?
- What is the house/apartment layout (in case of an emergency)?
- Where are the first aid supplies kept?
- Are there pets in the house?
- How many hours will I be required to work?
- What is your policy on screen time?
- What should I do if your child has a tantrum?
- Is there anything I should know about your child’s eating habits?
- How often should I check in with you?
- How does your child usually spend his or her free time?
- Does your child have any anxiety issues that I should know about (e.g., fear of the dark, fear of dogs)?
- Where can I find extra diapers, wet wipes, infant formula, etc.?
- What is the children’s bathing/showering schedule?
- What should I do if the child(ren) wakes up in the middle of the night?
- Are there foods that the child/children shouldn’t eat?
- How much pocket money can the child/children spend while I babysit?
- What is your policy on visitors while I babysit?
- What time should I expect you home?
- Can I order a pizza for dinner or should I plan something else?
- What TV shows or movies does the child like to watch?
- Are there any house rules I need to be aware of?
- Would he/she prefer to be read to or play outside?
- How long can they stay focused on one activity?
- Do they prefer to be alone or with others?
- How do they handle transitions (e.g., from play to bath time )?
- Are there words or behaviors that aren’t allowed?
- What is the address of the home?
- Is there anything I need to know about the family’s beliefs or religious practices?
- Can I use my phone while babysitting?
- Can I have friends over while I babysit?
- What’s the maximum number of hours I can babysit?
- Do you have any last-minute instructions for me before you leave?
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you prepare for babysitting?
There are a few important things you can do to prepare for babysitting. For one, you should review the basics of childcare. This includes things like how to change a diaper, how to comfort a child who is upset, and how to handle common childhood illnesses.
It’s also important to know your child’s daily routine and what special needs he or she has. These may include allergies or dietary restrictions.
Finally, it’s helpful if you have basic first-aid knowledge. This includes knowing how to treat minor injuries, how to perform CPR, and how to deal with choking hazards. By preparing ahead of time, you can make sure you’re ready for anything that comes your way while babysitting.
What do parents expect from babysitters?
Parents expect babysitters to be responsible and reliable. Babysitters are entrusted with the care of their children, so parents expect them to be punctual and always show up on time.
In addition, parents often expect babysitters to be proficient in basic childcare tasks, such as changing diapers and preparing meals. Finally, it’s always a plus if babysitters can entertain the kids with games and activities!
What should you not do while babysitting?
It’s important to remember that while babysitting, you’re responsible for the child’s safety and well-being. This means that you shouldn’t leave the child alone, even for a minute. You should also not allow the child to play with knives, matches, or other dangerous objects. Finally, you should make sure that the child drinks plenty of water and eats healthy snacks so that he or she has energy and is safe.
Conclusion
Of course, every family is different, and every child has their own needs and preferences. By asking yourself these questions before you commit to babysitting, you can set realistic expectations and make sure you and the parents are on the same page. With good communication and preparation, babysitting can be a fun and rewarding experience for everyone involved!
