How Do You Find a Babysitter?

Updated on June 30, 2009
K.R. asks from Minneapolis, MN
4 answers

This feels like a silly question, especially since my oldest is already 5. But our families have been very helpful for the most part, and we don't get out often! But in the last year or so, our families have become much less helpful, and we realize that we really need to find a good babysitter. As I said, we don't get out much. But for example, we're remodeling and wanted someone to watch the kids for a little while so we could go look at building supplies. We ended up taking all three with us. And now we really need to prime and paint before the project can continue, and again no one in our families can watch the kids for a few hours.

I've looked on craigslist and a few of the babysitting sites (like care.com) and just don't know what I'm doing. It feels strange, since I'm a child care provider myself, but it seems like I don't know what I'm doing. I really just want someone friendly and competent, like a local mom or teenager willing to watch them for a few hours. (Since I'm at home full time, I will also admit that I'm a little nervous about handing them off to anyone--even my mom--which may make it feel a little harder to me.)

So how have other parents found sitters? Have you had good luck with craigslists or other websites? Or have you looked at the high school or something (a little rougher now that school's out)? Thanks so much!

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More Answers

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

D.P.

answers from Minneapolis on

I would also start by asking the parents in your child care...who knows...maybe one of them would be willing to watch your kids for a few extra bucks!!

1 mom found this helpful
Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

C.M.

answers from Bismarck on

Hi K.--I don't think your request is silly at all!

Here are a couple of ideas: If there are other moms in your neighborhood, ask them who they use and like. If you belong to a church or other group there are usually lots of teens/young grammas who are looking for a little cash and fun with little kids. You might also ask your daycare's kids' moms who they use when they want to go out on the weekend! Good luck!

1 mom found this helpful
Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

D.P.

answers from Minneapolis on

I found mine through one of my neighbors. Nothing better than having an instant recommendation!

1 mom found this helpful
Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

K.W.

answers from Milwaukee on

I asked the youth pastor of our church for some names of responsible teenagers.

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