Choosing a babysitter (NSPCC)

Sometimes it might just be better to arrange for someone to stay with your child instead of leaving them home alone.

You and your child will probably like it best if it’s someone they know already but you should think carefully about leaving an older brother or sister in charge. After all, if they fall out – and no matter how close siblings are most of the time there’s always the chance of an argument – you won’t be around to make the peace.

Plus, you need to be confident that your older child will be comfortable with the responsibility you’re giving them.

If there isn’t a suitable family member or friend who can help out then you could arrange a babysitter. If you do, here are some tips to help.

Tips for choosing a babysitter

• There’s no legal age to babysit but you should really think carefully about using anyone under 16. Any younger and they might not be mature enough – or have the authority – to be in charge.
  
  
• If they're looking after more than one child or a child with complex needs, think about if they're able to handle this
  
  
• Ask them how they’d deal with situations like your child refusing to go to bed.
  
  
• Get them together with your child and see whether they hit it off well – and afterwards ask your child how they feel about the sitter.
  
  
• Ask the babysitter if they’ve looked after children often and whether they’d mind you speaking to other people they sit for.
  
  
• Remember, there’s nothing quite like a parent’s intuition. So if you’ve got any doubts at all about a possible babysitter it’s always best to find someone else.

Source:  NSPCC website