Tips for a Smooth First Babysitting Experience (For Parents and Kids!)

Written by Lisa

Booking a babysitter for the first time can stir up all kinds of feelings—excitement, nerves, and maybe even a touch of guilt. That’s completely normal. After all, entrusting someone else to care for your child is a big step.At Cherished Cherubs Babysitting, we understand that it’s not just about finding someone to watch the kids—it’s about finding someone you trust, who makes your child feel safe, happy, and supported. With a bit of preparation and the right sitter by your side, that first babysitting experience can be a positive and empowering one for everyone involved.Here are some practical tips to help you and your child feel confident and comfortable for your very first babysitting session.

1. Choose the Right Babysitter

The foundation of a smooth babysitting experience is selecting the right carer. Look for someone who is:

  • Warm, reliable, and experienced

  • Fully vetted with a Working With Children Check (WWCC), police clearance, and First Aid certification

  • Able to communicate well with both parents and children

  • A good match for your child’s age, personality, and needs

At Cherished Cherubs, we carefully match each family with a babysitter who not only meets your practical needs but also connects personally with your child. We know that trust and rapport make all the difference.


2. Talk About It Ahead of Time

Prepare your child by talking positively about the upcoming visit. Keep it simple and upbeat:

  • Explain who the babysitter is and why they’re coming

  • Let them know you’ll be back soon and where you’ll be

  • Share a few fun things the sitter might do with them (games, stories, playtime)


3. Do a Meet and Greet If You Can

If it’s possible, arrange a short introduction before the first full session—either in person or over a video call. This helps:

  • Break the ice and reduce any nerves

  • Familiarise your child with the sitter’s face and voice

  • Give you a chance to observe the interaction

At Cherished Cherubs, we’re happy to coordinate an introduction where possible so everyone starts off on the right foot.


4. Keep Routines Familiar

Children feel most secure when their routine is predictable. Share your child’s regular schedule with the babysitter, including:

  • Meal times and food preferences

  • Bath and bedtime routines

  • Favourite toys, comfort items, and calming strategies

  • Any medical needs or allergies

We make sure our sitters are fully briefed on your family’s preferences, so your child’s day (or night) stays as consistent and comforting as possible.


5. Say Goodbye With Confidence

It’s tempting to sneak out to avoid tears, but saying goodbye clearly and confidently helps your child learn that separations are safe and temporary.

Try this:

  • Give your child a big hug and smile

  • Tell them when you’ll be back in a way they understand (“after dinner” or “when you wake up”)

  • Keep the goodbye short and cheerful

If you’re calm and assured, your child is more likely to follow your lead. And our babysitters are trained to gently redirect children’s attention to play or storytime to ease any transition.


6. Keep in Touch (But Not Too Much)

It’s completely natural to want updates—especially the first time. Feel free to check in with your sitter via text after your child has settled, or ask for a quick photo if that gives you peace of mind.

At Cherished Cherubs, our babysitters provide a brief summary at the end of each session, letting you know how things went, what your child enjoyed, and any important notes.


7. Debrief With Your Child

After the babysitter leaves, take a few moments to chat with your child about the experience:

  • “Did you have fun with [Babysitter’s Name]?”

  • “What games did you play?”

  • “What should we tell her to bring next time?”

This shows your child that their feelings matter—and builds excitement and familiarity for next time.


A First Experience to Remember

A well-prepared first babysitting session can set the tone for a positive, ongoing relationship between your family and your sitter. It gives your child a chance to build independence, develop trust with new adults, and explore play and learning in a new way.

And for you as a parent? It’s a reminder that taking time for yourself—whether it’s for work, errands, or self-care—is not only okay, but healthy. You’re showing your child that it’s safe to lean on others, and that trusted support makes family life more joyful and sustainable.


Engage a Trusted Babysitter Today

Let us help your family start this journey with warmth, safety, and peace of mind. Reach out today, and let us help you take the worry out of finding the perfect babysitter for your family.

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At Cherished Cherubs, we have been providing quality childcare  in Perth since 2002.  We know how important your children are.  Our mission is to provide professional, tailored and affordable babysitting services to create a stress-free experience for parents.  We organise it all for you.  Whether you want to find a babysitter to take care of your little ones at home, at your hotel, at work or your latest event, we’ve got you covered.

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