The Babysitter: A Parent's Partner

All of these experiences, good and bad, with babysitters have taught us some valuable lessons. We've learned that parents are in partnership with the people who take care of their kids. To best help these sitters do their job, they need information. For instance, tell them where you're going and when you'll be back. Make sure to write out the phone number of where you can be reached, as well as the numbers for the pediatrician, fire and police departments. Also, leave the sitter your home phone number and address. In an emergency, a flustered babysitter may not be able to remember exactly where she is.