For Sitters

First-Time Babysitter? Your Complete Starter Guide

Your first babysitting job is mostly about preparation and calm. Do these things and you'll look like a pro.

Before the night

• Ask the ages, the schedule, allergies, and house rules up front.
• Get emergency contacts and the home address.
• Confirm your rate and end time before you arrive.
• Consider a basic CPR/first-aid course — it builds trust and pays for itself.

When you arrive

• Do a quick walkthrough: exits, first-aid, food, diapers, bathrooms.
• Let the parents show you the bedtime routine.
• Put your phone away — engaged sitters get rehired.

Handling the hard moments

• Crying: stay calm, check the basics (hungry, tired, diaper, comfort item), and reassure.
• Bedtime battles: stick to the routine the parents set; consistency wins.
• Anything serious: call the parents; in a real emergency, call emergency services first.
• The door/phone: don't open for strangers; don't share that you're alone with kids.

Get asked back

Tidy up the play area before they're home, send a quick "all good — they're asleep" text, and give an honest rundown of the night. Reliability and warmth are what turn one job into a regular gig.

General information for families and sitters — not professional childcare, legal, or medical advice. In an emergency, contact emergency services.