I recently hired a babysitter. This may sound like nothing extraordinary to you, but it’s the first time anyone has ever watched my children (ages 2 and 5) except my sister. Let me tell you, finding someone to watch your children, even for just a few hours every other week, can be frightening. The mere thought of a stranger watching my “babies” nearly sent me into a panic attack. Would they be dependable? Would they steal my children, or harm them? Sounds ridiculous? Perhaps, but there have been too many news stories recently for me not to be overly cautious.
But my husband and I needed to be able to get out now and then, to see a movie, go to dinner, simple things that are needed to keep a marriage alive. So I looked…and finally found someone.
I chose a high school student. I did that deliberately for a few reasons. First, they’re usually fun and will play with the children. Second, they don’t charge as much as adults. Third, I remember babysitting when I was a teenager and thoroughly enjoyed it, so it just seemed like the best choice for us.
If you’re not sure how to go about finding a babysitter, consider these options:
Call a high school or college near your home. Find out if you can post a sign advertising your babysitting needs. If you need someone just a few hours a month like we did, you’ll likely be able to find a teenager who needs some extra money who will watch your children.
If you attend church, ask other members of the congregation if they know of anyone. Chances are, someone will.
It’s not easy to find a reliable babysitter. But when the time comes, remember to listen to that little voice in your head. If it feels right, it likely is. But if something seems “off” to you, if you just don’t feel comfortable with someone, it’s best to keep looking. Your children are the most precious things in your life. Better to wait a little longer for that night out than to rush into such an important decision.
I’d love to know how you found a babysitter and what kind of experiences you’ve had.