Tips for a babysitter?

Scout1218

I am embarassed to admit that I've yet to leave my 2u2 with a babysitter other than my parents (and that has only been a handful of times, for about an hour at a time).  I'm in the process of lining up a sitter to watch my kids for about 2 hours one morning a week while I'm at a new exercise course (no childcare provided).  I'm sort of freaking out!!

Aside from the obvious things to leave for her, any tips?  I've got a list of phone numbers with emergency contacts, instructions on snacks/drinks and what I'm OK with as far as TV and such. She won't have to put either child down for a nap, just basically play with and watch over them while I'm gone.

And someone tell me it will be OK. I am an extreme Type-A control freak, so the thought of leaving my littles with a sort-of stranger is cause for a lot of anxiety lately.  I know I need to do it, I guess I just need the push to do it.

(I realize this post is sort of pathetic and most will probably roll their eyes, but I need help!) 

lkf041

This post is not pathetic at all!  I have only left my kids with family as well so I would be having anxiety as well.  I think your list covers everything and it will be ok... it'll probably be harder on you then the kids.  

Ruby_Soho

When I used to babysit I'd love when parents would direct me to the basic art supplies, not paint, just crayons or pencils. Especially with younger babies. It means the babysitters can sit with them both, your DD can colour and she can help your DS with colouring or read to him. It's nice to have a quiet option, not just running around.

One major thing though. When you leave, make sure you have everything the first time, say goodbye to the kids and GO. I used to have parents that would forget stuff, keep coming back inside and if the kid had a hard time with them leaving and was crying they'd stall and it would make it so much worse. If the parent just left and that was it, the kid would only cry for half a minute and I could give them a hug and distract them with an activity and the day would be fine. If the parent dragged it out it would take a lot longer to calm the kid as they'd be so much more worked up.

And remember, people who babysit generally do it because they love kids and love entertaining them. Try not to worry and try to enjoy your time away from them.

beyoga

I think a quick tour of the house and where everything is helps.  Everything will be ok.  DD is due in October but ds was a micro preemie and he has a g tube so I can't just leave him w/a babysitter and dh's family has zero interest in helping.  So I'm a SAHM.  I don't think it's unusual.  Every family is different.  Not everyone "needs" a sitter.

CaitlinJ22

If I had family around, I wouldve never left them with a sitter until now too. I think you got it covered. Maybe explain your ways of discipline so you are on the same page...timeout, taking toy away etc....explain what you are not ok with. I think its important to say that, just so there is nothing to worry about. 

Im a control freak too, and I had to do it since I had no family here. BUT the best thing you can do is feel comfortable with the sitter, have her come before and play while you are in the house, get to know her a bit, and definitely check at least 2 references. If you feel weird about her at all, dont hire her. A good sitter won't mind you taking the time to get to know her and be around her with the kids.

you'll be fine!