Choosing a Babysitter

Choosing a Babysitter

This article will help you think about proper care for your child when you can't be there and you've chosen to use a babysitter because there are things you must think about and do before choosing someone to look after your child.

First a foremost if you do not feel comfortable with a person do not leave them with your child; infants, toddlers and children need appropriate supervision at all times.

If you have someone who you trust with your child, chat to them and make sure they are happy to help you when you need a sitter.
There are lots of people around you that can help you work out a babysitter plan, think about talking to:
Your local Maternal and Child Health Nurse
Your local Community Health Centre
Family services at your local council
Maternal and Child Health Line (children 0-6 years): 13 22 29
Parentline (children 0-18 years): 13 22 89

Things to Think About:
Ask yourself these questions to see if you are prepared:
Is the place where the babysitter will care for your child safe?
Is the babysitter experienced and mature?
Has the babysitter had any trouble with anger, drugs or alcohol?
Will the babysitter smoke near my baby? Remember all cigarette smoke is bad for babies and children.
Will the babysitter know how to comfort my child?
Has the babysitter had any problems looking after other children or their own?
Does the babysitter know how to act in an emergency?
Will the babysitter know how to contact you?
How well do I know and trust the babysitter?

Actions to Take
If you can successfully answer the questions below, you need to take these actions, for the babysitter:
Tell the babysitter where you will be, how to contact you and when you will be back.
Inform the babysitter of the child's comfort toy and leave interesting things for the child and babysitter to do.
Explain to the babysitter how to safely put your baby to bed, explain that their face is to be uncovered at all times and they need to sleep on their back.
Tell the babysitter about any illness or medication your child, might need.

Warning Signs
It is important to look out for concerns or potential warning signs when using a babysitter, look for these warnings:
Anybody who asks your child to keep a secret from you.
Someone who's reason for being your babysitter, is unclear.
Bruises or an injury to your child when they were being babysat
Any person you don't trust, male or female; family or friend.
Your child's reaction to a person (angry, frightened, upset or or withdrawn).

www.femail.com.au/childproof-your-home-with-dreambaby.htm