Be Sure to Check Your Babysitter Checklist

Leaving baby for the first time can be extremely hard, especially if you haven't had a moment away from your little one. However, it is important to give yourself plenty of "grown up" time so that you do not become overwhelmed by the struggles of parenting. If you are planning on going out on a date with your husband or just needed a short breather, there are a few things that you will need to leave with the babysitter, to ensure a happy and safe babysitting experience.

The super nanny may even need a little instruction when it comes to watching your child. Every child is different and may require different needs. In this article we will go over a basic babysitter checklist to leave with the babysitter.

It is very important to share with the sitter how your baby is most easily calmed. If you have a colicky baby or if your baby requires special attention, be sure to let the sitter know how the baby is most easily comforted. The last thing you want to come home to is a frustrated babysitter who could not get your little one to stop crying the entire time you were gone. If the baby requires rocking, a pacifier, or just a soft back rub, be sure to share this information with the sitter.

What is baby's favorite toy? Many newborns aren't really into toys, however, if you have an older infant they may like to snuggle next to their favorite soft teddybear, or like to shake their colorful giraffe. Whatever the toy may be, make sure the babysitter has it in plain site, just in case of a meltdown.

The best way for the sitter to put the baby to sleep is very important. It is also important that you make sure they know how the baby should sleep and where they should sleep. Let them know that the baby does not require a pillow. If the baby sleeps with a light blanket, make sure the sitter has access to it so that they do not put baby under a large comforter.

How to burp baby is also important. If you have an expert sitter on your hands, they probably know the procedure, however, if the neighbor's 15 year-old daughter is watching the infant, you might want to go over the simple patting of the back procedure, or whatever way works best for you.

Let the sitter know where you have the baby's diapers and wipes. If the baby requires diaper rash cream, make sure they know where it is located.

Tell the sitter where you keep extra clothing for baby. You may even want to pull out an extra clean outfit just in case baby makes a mess of their clothes.

Show the sitter how to make a bottle and how to feed baby. Once again most expert sitters will know how to make a bottle, however, different formulas may require different instructions. You may want to refrigerate some pre-made bottles and have the sitter heat them up when the baby gets hungry.

Share with the sitter what the baby can and cannot eat. If baby is allergic to any certain foods, make sure to tell the sitter to avoid any allergic reactions.

Show the sitter the set up of your home. Make sure they know where the phone is, where the baby's room and crib are, and what they are allowed to touch (for example, they can watch TV or use your computer). If you do not want the sitter snooping through your home, it is best to keep doors locked for rooms you do not want them to go in.

If your baby spits up constantly, has a sickness, or any other strange condition, let the sitter know so that they do not get a surprise.

Make sure the sitter knows how to administer any medicine the baby may need. Let them know how often baby requires the medicine and how much of it each time.

Show the sitter where the first aid kit is located. If you have a fire extinguisher, let them know where that is too.

If you have access to baby safety rules, you should maybe photo copy and place them on the fridge so that the sitter has access to information if they need it.

Make sure the sitter knows who can visit the home when you are not there. If it is not permissible for the sitter to have friends over while you are not home, then let them know. If you do not mind, make it clear.

Leave important phone numbers available for the sitter. The baby's doctor, your cell number, a family member's number, and poison control center are all examples of important numbers. Make sure the sitter has access to 911 and the fire department if need be.

It may be a good idea to leave cab fare available for the sitter if they do not have a vehicle just in case of an emergency.

Leave the baby's car seat, just in case there is an emergency and baby has to be rushed to the emergency room.

I hope that God willing this information will be of some benefit to you.