Questions for Babysitters

KYMelissa06

So we're in the process of interviewing babysitters.  We currently have a few options, some in our home & some in their homes.  

I'm at a loss as to what sort of questions I should ask them.  I already know their rates so that's not a discussion that we need to have.

Here is my list:

CPR/First aid certified?

Do you watch sick children? If so it's a no go because I'm not going to have my healthy kid getting sick because there are other children there that are sick

How far in advance do you need my schedule? (we're doing part time care and the days are not set in stone)

Can I provide my own food for my child? (and will you feed it to him if I bring it?)

Names/Numbers of references?

 

identicaltwins2be

Here are a few questions that I asked our sitter (in no particular order)

Are you trained in infant/child CPR and First Aid?

What activities do you enjoy with the children? 

 

Do the kids watch television during the day?  If so, how much?

 

What is your approach to discipline?

 

 Do you have children of your own?  If so, how old are they and are they home with you during the day?

 

How many other children will you have on the days you are watching our children?

 

What do you like best about being a childcare provider?

 

If you are sick, do you have a backup?

 

If the kids are sick or on vacation, what pay is expected?

 

What kind of schedule do the kids follow?  Is everyone on the same schedule?

 

Can you provide 3 references and/or a background check?

 

If another child is ill, do you send them home?  What is your illness policy?

 

Do you go on field trips?  If so how often and where?  Who helps on these trips? 

 

Do you have help?

 

Do you have pack-n-plays, exesaucers, stroller, etc.

 

Where do the kids sleep?

 

Do you provide lunch once eating table food?  Do you provide breakfast and snacks?