How Many Kids Should a Babysitter Have?

Before you get nervous wait until she gives you the schedule. Then see how it works. also look at the state ratios for centers. I dont know what they are anymore she is probably giving your child the same kind of attention they would get in a center. Remember babies sleep alot and the older ones are more easily entertained than toddlers. He is probably not getting "one on one" attention but he wouldnt get that in a center either. I have worked in centers before and I prefer to send my children to in home care. Also if you really like her and are happy with her, and she doesnt charge an arm and a leg (like a center would) then talk to her about it. You have been with her for over a year, you should at least be able to talk to her. Ask to see her on a day when there arent any children there. Leave your son at home with Dad and talk, one on one.
If you think its not going to work with her, start looking for a cneter now. Pop in and see how the teachers interact with the group of children. They should let you tour, if not, dont send. That way you have pleanty of time to pick the right one.

I do believe the law states six children per adult, licensed or not. My girlfriend had to rush to find a daycare center last year after her babysitter was "caught" with nine children and shut down.

We have a wonderful daycare. I feel much more comfortable than a private sitter because they give you an information sheet at the end of the day on naps, feedings, diapie changes, etc. and have to follow state rules - wearing plastic gloves for diapie changes, cleaning toys, etc. Your son will also be with children his own age and do age-appropriate activites and play with age-appropriate toys. Check out daycares unannounced until you find one that your gut feels comfortable with. Two I looked at were definite "I forgot something out in the car!" types, but most were nice and the two ladies in charge of ours run a tight ship and make sure things are run the way they should be.

Best of luck in finding something you like! Hope you have a wonderful New Year. :)

Well from what you just advertised the babysitter is breaking the law, you cannot have that many kids, babies, or toddlers to one adult. You will have to double check but I am pretty sure in the state of OH you can only legally watch five to six kids per adult without a lisence. Legal or not in my opinion that is just too many for adult to handle and pay attention to.

I think in the state of OH you can only have 6 kids per adults with out a license. If some of the kids are only there till they go to school, that makes a difference too. The reality is that no matter where you take your son, he's not going to get one on one attention. He certainly wouldn't get it in a daycare facility. It's good for him to play with other kids his age. He's going to learn things like how to interact and sharing. Those are VERY important things for little ones to learn. If he's not being left in dirty diapers or not being fed or something like that, I'd let it go. If you are still concerned about it after you receive the schedule from her, you really have no choice but to look elsewhere for child care. If that's what you decide to do, be very honest with her. Let her know in plenty of time. She'll most likely try to find a replacement to fill your sons spot. It's only fair that you give her AT LEAST two weeks notice.

Well I have an in home child care with the backing of the state through the USDA food program which gives up a bit more regulations to follow. However any in home provider "should" follow the laws! That is 6 children at any one time, including their own under the age of 6...and only 3 of which can be under the age of 2.
I too would wait for her to outline who is there when cause sometimes it might look like more are there when they are coming and going.
I'm not sure if you have a contract with this provider but I would advise you to look at your termination agreement and make sure if you decide to pull him that you stick to it in reguards to two week notice or not.
Good luck and I hope it all works out for you and your family.