D.C. Area Babies

How do I interview a sitter?

We are in need of a backup sitter or for evenings so we don't burn out Bambino's grandmas. 

I'm planning on using Craigslist to start my search. But I have questions on the interview process.  Do I meet the sitter in a neutral location first and ask questions that are important to me and ask to see her references? Then do I proceed with a little time at my home so she can get a tour, see our environment and get used to our animals?  

It also makes me a little nervous leaving Bambino with someone totally new to both of us in our home...I need to chill because people do this all the time!!

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Re: How do I interview a sitter?

  • There are many ways to go about this - it is all about what makes  you comfortable.

    Care.com and sittercity.com both offer background checks - which is a nice feature. 

    I would do a phone interview - have a few questions to do an inital screening.  Then interview in person the ones you like best.  I always have people come to our house - but you could do a neutral location first.

    Then I check references.

    Then I would have them come over a few times while you are there - but doing laundry or something in another room.  Then they can interact w/your kid w/o feeling like it is a performance - and you can listen in - see how things are going - intervene if you need to.  Once you have establised a comfort level - go out for short outings - a trip to Target, etc.  Once you feel you can trust them - you can go out for the night.

     Hope this helps!!

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  • We have used the Educated Babysitter several times and really like them. I am not sure I would be comfortable with CL unless I did a background check.
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  • I would also advise avoiding Craigslist, if possible.  Even ask FB friends if they have any recs on sitters.
  • Thanks so much for the recs and tips!  And I already scratched Craigslist off - thanks!
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  • I just realized from your other post that you are in central VA so my suggestion does not help you at all. Sorry!
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  • I use sittercity.com.  I exchange a few e-mails, and then have them come to the house.  I like to meet them and see how they interact with DS.
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  • 2 sitters have already responded to my posting...I have to learn how to use this thing fast! Ah!
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