Demonstrating competence as a babysitter begins before the parents leave. The questions you ask prepare you for the job and signal a level of professionalism that builds trust. Understanding the children’s needs and the family’s expectations is the foundation for a safe and successful experience for everyone involved.
Questions About the Children
Your primary responsibility is the children’s well-being, so getting to know them is your first task. Understanding their personalities, needs, and daily lives helps you provide the best care and anticipate their needs. This keeps their day consistent, which is reassuring for children.
Routines and Schedules
Inquiring about the children’s daily rhythm is fundamental to a smooth experience. Ask for an overview of their day, including times for meals, naps, and bedtime. For infants, this includes feeding schedules and sleep durations. For older children, knowing their bedtime routine—such as a bath or story—can make a significant difference in how they settle down. Maintaining their schedule provides security.
Health and Allergies
A child’s health and safety are a top priority. You must ask about any allergies, including food, insects, or environmental factors, and what to do if a reaction occurs. Inquire about any medications the children need, including the dosage, timing, and method of administration. Also ask about ongoing medical conditions to be prepared.
Comfort and Discipline
Understanding a child’s emotional needs is as important as their physical ones. To ensure you can comfort them and handle situations consistently with their parenting style, ask about:
- What comforts them when they are upset, such as a favorite blanket or toy.
- Any specific fears or anxieties to be aware of.
- The parents’ general approach to discipline and how they handle misbehavior.
- Specific words or actions they use for discipline so you can be consistent.
Questions About Household Rules
Adhering to household rules maintains consistency for the children and shows respect for the family. Clarifying these rules upfront prevents misunderstandings and ensures you manage the household in a way the family finds acceptable.
A primary area to discuss is technology and media consumption. Ask about screen time limits, including how much time is allowed and on which devices. You should also know what shows, games, or apps are approved for the children. This prevents them from accessing inappropriate content and avoids arguments over technology.
Clarify the rules around food and snacks, including what the children are allowed to eat and any “off-limits” treats. Ask where to find approved snacks and drinks. You should also inquire if any rooms or spaces are off-limits to you or the children to respect the family’s private spaces.
Questions for Safety and Emergencies
While you hope for an uneventful job, being prepared for an emergency is a professional obligation. Your ability to respond correctly in a crisis depends on having specific information before the parents leave. This preparation ensures you can handle any situation with confidence.
Your first priority is to gather all necessary contact information. Be sure to get the following:
- Cell phone numbers for both parents and where they will be.
- The name and number of at least one other local emergency contact.
- The full street address, in case you need to call emergency services.
- The location of the nearest hospital or urgent care clinic.
Beyond contact details, understand the home’s safety features. Ask for the location of the first-aid kit, fire extinguishers, and flashlights. You should also discuss specific emergency plans, such as the procedure for a fire, including escape routes and an outside meeting point. Discussing these scenarios beforehand equips you to protect the children.
Questions About Logistics and Payment
Addressing the business aspects of the job upfront ensures clarity and professionalism. This conversation prevents misunderstandings around expectations and compensation, establishing a professional relationship from the start.
Confirm the financial arrangements. Double-check the agreed-upon hourly rate and ask how the parents prefer to handle payment, whether with cash, a check, or a payment app. It is also practical to discuss how overtime will be calculated if they return later than planned. This ensures you are compensated fairly.
Finalize the logistical details. Confirm the parents’ expected return time and ask them to call or text if their plans change. You should also clarify expectations regarding clean-up. Some families expect the house to be as they left it, while others might have tasks like washing dishes or putting away toys.