The first half of the battle is over — you’ve found a babysitter. No easy feat, especially if you’re doing this for the first time. Having a babysitter to your home can be a little nerve-wracking. Sometimes it is practically a stranger who you are inviting into your home, when you aren’t there, to care for your most precious things in the world. So it’s OK to worry and feel stressed. No doubt you have a huge list of rules and guidelines set up. Making sure you have a few simple things covered will lead to a much more relaxing night out — you’ll know your children are in good hands!

All the information

We’ve got you covered, with our comprehensive sheet full of information your babysitter might need. Print this up, hang it on the fridge, and relax a little. Emergency contact information and any other important needs should be shared with the sitter. Keep it simple — she’s probably as overwhelmed as you are.

Trust

You did your research. Though this person might be new to you, she likely isn’t a complete and total stranger. You put in the time to find someone who you felt comfortable with. Trust that everything is fine, even though you aren’t there.

Relax

The rules relax a bit in our house when we have a sitter. Dinner may not be as nutritious, bedtime might be a little bit later, and my kid may not brush his teeth. It’s OK! You can’t expect someone else to do it exactly as you do, right? Besides, a change of pace is good for them.

Enjoy

You deserve a little time to yourself. Maybe you are at a meeting, or just out with friends. Either way, take time to just be yourself, and don’t focus so much on being mom. A few hours away is good for everyone.

boston moms blog babysitter checklist

Morgan Sheena
Morgan came to Boston via New Jersey for college and law school and never left. She married her college sweetheart, Solomon, in October 2007. After years of trying to find themselves, they added three beautiful and energetic children, Aaron (October 2010), Olivia (June 2013), and Jesse (May 2016) to the family. They also have brother and sister miniature schnauzers, Rufio and Gracie. They live in Brookline and love city living.  Morgan is also a travel planner at Whitney World Travel and loves helping her clients find the perfect vacation for them. Loves: Exploring Boston, traveling, trying new restaurants, all things Disney, dive bars, blanco tequila, cooking elaborate meals, black coffee, dry red wine, working out, watching mindless movies (and quoting them) and getting lost in a good book. Can't Stand: when people snap their gum, cigarettes, loud chewing noises, cleaning floors and snakes.