what's a good way to find a babysitter?

anakin

We've never had a babysitter for our kids because we've never had a need for one.  But DH is getting a new job with a 1 hour commute and I hope to take a class at our local community college starting this summer.  (1 night a week, Korean so I can start to understand the conversations at the IL's house).  So we'll need someone to cover about 2 hours a week.  From when I leave until DH comes home (and guarantee they get paid for 2 hours regardless of when he gets home).

All of our friends are our age and have families so I hesitate to ask them.  And all their kids are similar ages to our kids so that is out.

I've considered asking at church but we just started attending and am unsure how to seek someone out.

I am concerned that if I advertise on Craig's List or somewhere like that I'll have trouble finding someone I trust.  But I'm just not sure where to look.  I've heard that there are websites to find babysitters that "certify" their sitters.  But I'm still not sure that I would trust that.

Advice?  Thanks!

ali-1411

My babysitters are usually a friend's daughter.  Or my mom will ask her friends about their teenage daughters. 

Your church might have a bulletin board, you could check there.

DandelionMom

Ask your friends for references.  I've found my best sitters that way.  I like teenage sitters that have taken cpr classes and have a lot of experience. 

joy143dh

Visit or call a local preschool.  Most of the teachers and teacher assistents at DS's preschool do babysitting on the side.  It's great because they have already been prescreened and they all work with kids.