When hiring babysitters to care for a child or children it is helpful to put together some vital information so that they have all the facts to make the job easier and in case of emergency. So what items need to be on babysitter checklists?

If the sitter is caring for an infant, what are the feeding times? Where is the food located? Is the food or formula prepared, or is this something babysitters need to do? Make sure this information is included on babysitter checklists. Make sure that the babysitters also know where to dispose of dirty diapers, where to find clean diapers, and the location of clean clothes.

Does the child have any allergies? If the child has a pet allergy, food allergy, or is allergic to bee stings, let the babysitter know just in case, and include this item on your babysitter checklists.

Does the child take medicine? And if so, what is the proper dosage and administration time? Let the babysitter know about any medication the child needs to take, and make sure that they know how to administer the medicine properly.

What about bedtime? Most babies and small children rely on a consistent bedtime for comfort and optimal health. Make sure that the babysitter is aware of the child’s bedtime and any bedtime routines that the child expects. If the child has a favorite book or stuffed animal that is part of their bedtime routine, make sure this is on hand for babysitters.

In case of a babysitting emergency, what is the contact number for the parent or parents? Always include a cell phone number so that the babysitter can call a parent just in case.

Before you leave a child in the care of a sitter, make sure that they are aware of all the items on the list. It may seem elementary, but go over the list with the sitter personally so that communication is clear and direct. Place the babysitter checklists in strategic locations around your home either posted on the refrigerator or by the telephone.

These lists make the babysitter’s job easier and can help parents feel more at ease with leaving their child in the care of someone else.