City of Perry, Georgia: Crime Prevention

Tips For Babysitters

Baby-sitting is a wonderful opportunity to help your neighbors and earn money. It's also a big responsibility. Remember: you're being trusted with the care of another person's children. Regardless of your age, there are things you should know and do to help you be better prepared for the job ahead.

Before You Arrive

One of the safest things you can do is baby-sit only for the people you know personally.

Younger persons should always get permission from a parent or guardian before accepting any baby-sitting job.

Get the parents' schedule before they leave- know the destinations and phone numbers of where they will be and when.

Ask them to post their cell phone and/or pager numbers in a conspicuous place in case you need to contact them.

Ask them to also post the number of a trusted neighbor.

Ask if the child has any special needs such as medications, allergies, etc., and make sure you are able to properly address them.

Make certain that you have reliable transportation to and from the the job.

Younger persons should tell parents where the sitting job will be and when they will be home.

Parents of baby-sitters should call during the time of employment to ensure that everything is okay and going smoothly.

On the Job

Know where the phones are located.

Know the street address of the house where you're sitting.

Know and follow your employer's instructions; allow only approved snacks, TV shows, games, etc. Know the child's bedtime and stick to it.

Be polite: clean up after the children and yourself. Don't have guests over without the permission of your employer.

Don't stay on the phone! Remember that your parents or employer may be trying call you with instructions or to check on you.

Make sure that you lock the doors to the house and shut windows.

If you are a day-time sitter, lock the back door if you take the children out in the front yard, and vice versa.

At night, turn on outside lights and lock the doors.

Don't allow strangers in or let strangers know that adults aren't present in the house.

Know what to do in case of an emergency, and be as calm as possible. Remember that children may not be too frightened if you're calm.

When the Employer(s) Return

Describe the events of the evening. Be honest.

Always tell them about any unusual activity such as strange phone calls or strangers at the door.

If your employer is taking you home, call your parents before leaving the house to let them know you're on your way.

Special Note

It's unfortunate, but sometimes employers of baby-sitters aren't responsible; they may return home intoxicated. In such a case, have your parents or a trusted adult pick you up. Reliable transportation to and from the job, including a back-up plan, is YOUR responsibility. Younger sitters should discuss contingencies with parents. If your employer fails to compensate you, is rude, or makes you feel unsafe in any way, refuse to take future sitting jobs from him or her, and always tell a parent how you feel and why.

If you have questions, you can call us any time day or night at (478) 988-2800.

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