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Instructions for the babysitter

It’s time to let your hair down, throw something sparkly on and let the kids survive a night without their slave parents. But will you have complete peace of mind when you are out on the town and what should the babysitter do in an emergency? Surprisingly, there is no law in Ireland setting out a minimum age a child/teenager must be before they can babysit other children. However, in the absence of legislation we would reccommend that no one under 16 should be left to care for a younger child.

Here’s our advice on instructions to the babysitter.

Contact Numbers

First off, contact numbers. Does your sitter have your mobile phone numbers? If your going to a restaurant or a friend’s house, give them the contacts numbers of your location and your friends, including emergency contact numbers, just in case. Also, leave the number of a neighbour who can help for small mishaps that won’t require you to come home, such as power outage or lost cat etc

Medical Issues

Does your child have any medical issues? Allergies to certain foods or take medication? Make sure to tell your sitter. Also, tell them what kind of foods the baby or child can have and what they cannot, dont leave it to guesswork. Does the baby take formula? Make sure they know how to make it.

Schedule

By sticking to the usual routine your child will feel more comfortable and the sitter will have an easier time putting them to bed. Let your babysitter know what time for bed, dinners, what book you usually read before bed, favorite toys, how much TV/gaming is allowed.

House Rules

If there are certain sections of the house, or appliances you do not wish the sitter to use then make sure you discuss this. Other rules such as internet use, phone use, if visitors are allowed, expectations of tidying up etc should all be discussed before you go.

Safety

Make sure you show the babysitter the emergency exits, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers are located. Demonstrate how to enable and disable security systems and alarms if you have them. Let them know where you have a first-aid kit is if needed. Give them spare keys for front and back door.

If you have expectations of your babysitter other than these, please discuss it so you can have peace of mind and fun on your night out!

If you are looking for a babysitter in Ireland, please visit our dedicated childminders forums.

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