by Priscilla Benfield

Created on: June 12, 2009   Last Updated: June 14, 2009

There are times when even the stay at home mom might need a babysitter. Finding someone qualified to take care of your precious child can be a challenge. Having a good babysitter that you can rely on is as important as finding a good pediatrician. Parents need a break sometimes, or maybe you need someone on a more regular basis. Regardless of how often you need a sitter the qualities to look for are the same.

Experience is important. Growing up in a large family is not always enough experience to be a sitter. A sitter whose only experience is with her siblings may be good for an older child who should not be home alone, but for an infant or young child, experience with other people's children is important. Helping out with your siblings is a lot different from watching a stranger's child.

A potential babysitter should have several references for you to be able to check out. It shows that the sitter is professional and also backs up their experience.

A babysitter needs to be respectful of your disciplining procedures, and follow your guidelines that you set in place for the time she will be watching your child. You should feel comfortable discussing your child with the sitter, and feel confident that you can communicate well with her. Use your instincts about the person. You are interviewing them, but the conversation should be relaxed yet professional.

Of course, you want a sitter that you can trust and is responsible. Someone who is loving and shows your child caring and compassion are other key qualities. Most of us want more than just a physical body that will sit and make sure the child keeps from burning the house down. Someone who is creative and enjoys the company of children will make the experience enjoyable for your child.

A babysitter might have excellent references showing years of experience, but if she and your child do not "click", it isn't going to work. Children are intuitive, and although some can be shy with strangers, if your child "takes" to a babysitter upon meeting them that is a good sign. The child will be more likely to behave and enjoy the experience. After you have checked out references and had a talk with the sitter, then the sitter should meet your child. Observe how they relate to each other.

Overall, responsibility,caring,compassion,respect, and trustworthiness are the most important qualities to look for in a sitter. Use your instincts and your child's reactions, and you will be able to find the babysitting help that you need.

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