Before you book your first babysitter, or nanny, read these tips from the childcare experts at Kiddo.     

BY REBECCA DREDGE, KIDDO

SEPTEMBER 24, 2024

Hiring a babysitter or nanny for the very first time can be a daunting experience for any parent.  

You may feel anxious about leaving your little one in the hands of a relative stranger, and definitely want to ensure your child's safety and happiness. 

However, we’re pleased to report that with careful planning and the right resources, you can make this transition smooth and successful.  

This guide provides practical advice to help you confidently navigate your first experience hiring a babysitter or nanny. 

Here are your six steps to success! 

1. Assess your childcare needs 

It’s important to understand the specific childcare requirements you have, so start by considering the following: 

• Duration and frequency of care: Do you need full-time, part-time or occasional childcare? 

• Type of care: Are you looking for a regular babysitter, an occasional babysitter, a live-in nanny or a nanny share? 

• Special needs: Does your child have any special requirements that a caregiver should be aware of? 
  
  

2. Research your options 

Once you've identified your needs, research the various home-based childcare options available in your area.  

Look for reputable nanny agencies and trusted babysitting services, and keep in mind that online platforms, like the Kiddo App, can be incredibly useful.  

Kiddo App connects you with vetted childcare professionals, ensuring peace of mind and quality care.  

The app gives you choice and control when assessing your childcare options, with individual reviews, ratings and verification checks visible for each caregiver.     

3. Check credentials and references   

Once you’ve shortlisted some potential babysitters or nannies, it’s important to thoroughly vet their credentials and references.  

Look for: 

• Qualifications: Make sure your prospective caregiver has relevant certifications and training for the job you need them to do. 

• Experience: Check their experience, especially with children of a similar age to yours. 

• Background checks: Confirm that thorough background checks have been conducted. 

The Kiddo App simplifies this process by providing access to a database of pre-screened childcare professionals, complete with detailed profiles and reviews from other parents. 

4. Conduct interviews 

Once you’ve selected some potential caregivers, arrange interviews with each of them. 

Prepare some questions to gauge their suitability, such as: 

• Experience and training: What is their background in childcare? 

• Emergency procedures: How do they handle emergencies or unexpected situations? 

• Daily activities: What kinds of activities do they plan for children? 

During the interview, observe the caregiver’s interaction with your child. This can provide valuable insight into their compatibility and approach. 

5. Perform a trial run 

Before committing to a long-term arrangement, schedule a trial booking. This allows you to observe the caregiver in action, and see how your child adjusts to the new arrangement.  

Some of our tips include scheduling a short booking, and perhaps being at home with the babysitter or nanny for half the time, so you all get to know each other. Then use some of the other time to do something local, so you’re close by and feel more at ease should you want (or need) to come home early.  

It’s as much about your child being settled, as it is about you feeling comfortable too.  

Also, use this time to communicate any specific routines, preferences or rules to the babysitter or nanny, so you’re all on the same page.  

6. Set clear expectations 

Once you've chosen a babysitter or nanny, set clear expectations from the start.  

Discuss and agree on: 

• Responsibilities: Outline the caregiver's duties and responsibilities. 

• Schedules: Establish a consistent schedule that works for both parties. 

• Communication: Determine how, and when, you will communicate regarding your child's progress and any concerns. 

• How much to pay:  Read Kiddo's article on how much babysitters cost. 
  
  

These tips will help you find the right caregiver for your child, and Kiddo App definitely supports seamless babysitter or nanny hiring 

Kiddo is a valuable resource for parents seeking reliable babysitters or nannies.  

By offering a platform that connects you with qualified, vetted caregivers, Kiddo App makes the process of hiring a babysitter or nanny less stressful and more efficient.  

With features such as detailed caregiver profiles, user reviews and secure messaging, Kiddo App ensures you find the best match for your family's needs. 

In conclusion, hiring a babysitter or nanny for the first time requires careful consideration and planning, and using a service like Kiddo, makes it simple to find the perfect babysitter for your family! 

Learn more about Kiddo and their services here.  

Then, to get started, simply download the Kiddo App from the App Store or Google Play and see how simple and easy it is to find trusted babysitters and nannies near you!