How Babysitting Supports Mental Health for Parents and Carers

Written by Lisa

As parents, we often put our children’s needs before our own—and while that’s a natural part of nurturing a family, it can sometimes come at a cost. Between sleepless nights, endless to-do lists, and the emotional load of raising tiny humans, many parents and carers find themselves feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or even burnt out.At Cherished Cherubs Babysitting, we want every parent to know: you’re not alone—and it’s okay to ask for help. Babysitting isn’t just about giving you time away from the kids. It’s about supporting your wellbeing, helping you feel calmer and more capable, and giving you the chance to breathe.Here’s how trusted, professional babysitting can make a meaningful difference to your mental health—and why prioritising your own care is one of the best things you can do for your family.

Why Parental Mental Health Matters

When you’re feeling emotionally well, everything feels more manageable. You’re more patient, more engaged, and better equipped to handle the daily ups and downs of parenting.

But when stress builds up and there’s no time to decompress, it can start to affect:

  • Your sleep

  • Your mood and energy

  • Your ability to focus or enjoy time with your children

  • Your relationships with your partner, family, or friends

Research shows that chronic stress and isolation are common among new parents, FIFO families, single carers, and even those with strong support systems. That’s why building regular breaks into your routine—no matter how small—is essential, not optional.


How Babysitting Supports Mental Health

Whether it’s a few hours a week or an occasional helping hand, babysitting can offer practical and emotional relief that directly supports your mental health and wellbeing.

Here’s how:


1. Time to Rest and Recharge

Sometimes, the best thing you can do is nothing at all. A professional babysitter gives you space to:

  • Nap

  • Read a book

  • Watch a show without interruption

  • Simply enjoy a quiet cup of tea

Even just one hour of uninterrupted downtime can help regulate your nervous system, lower stress, and restore your mental clarity.


2. Help Managing the Mental Load

Parenting isn’t just physical—it’s mental and emotional too. The planning, organising, remembering, and worrying never stops. Babysitting can help ease this invisible load by:

  • Providing consistent, reliable support

  • Offering backup when plans fall through

  • Helping manage routines like school runs, meals, or bedtime

This kind of help allows you to step back, breathe, and reset, even when life is busy.


3. Emotional Relief from Guilt and Pressure

Many parents feel guilty for needing time away from their kids—but here’s the truth: taking care of your needs isn’t selfish. It’s necessary.

A babysitter offers reassurance that your child is:

  • Safe and cared for by a trained professional

  • Engaged in meaningful play

  • Comfortable in their own home environment

Knowing your child is thriving—even while you take time for yourself—can lift a huge emotional weight off your shoulders.


4. Supports Parents Experiencing Anxiety or Depression

If you’re managing postnatal depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges, having someone to help with the kids—even just occasionally—can be life-changing.

Cherished Cherubs babysitters are:

  • Compassionate and understanding

  • Flexible and non-judgemental

  • Experienced in supporting children through gentle, calm care

We’ve worked with countless families going through difficult seasons, and we’re here to walk alongside you with care, not judgement.


5. Allows Time for Self-Care and Relationships

Self-care isn’t just bubble baths and spa days—it’s anything that helps you feel grounded and supported. That might be:

  • Seeing a counsellor or therapist

  • Attending a medical appointment

  • Going for a walk

  • Catching up with a friend

  • Reconnecting with your partner

These moments nourish your mental health and help you show up as your best self for your child and your family.


What Perth Parents Are Saying

“I was struggling quietly and felt like I had no time to breathe. A friend recommended Cherished Cherubs, and booking that first sitter changed everything. It gave me space to rest—and feel human again.”
– Elise, Mum of 1, East Fremantle

“My husband works FIFO, and I was starting to feel really overwhelmed. Just having someone come for a few hours a week made me feel less alone. I didn’t realise how much I needed it.”
– Jodie, Mum of 3, Rockingham

“Cherished Cherubs gave me permission to look after myself without guilt. Our sitter is amazing with the kids, and I finally feel like I can step away and breathe.”
– Michael, Dad of 2, Mount Hawthorn


Because When You Feel Supported, Everything Gets Easier

At Cherished Cherubs Babysitting, we believe your wellbeing matters just as much as your child’s. We’re here to help you create space, find balance, and feel supported—so you can enjoy parenthood without feeling overwhelmed by it.

Our babysitters are:

  • Fully vetted with WWCC, police clearance, and First Aid

  • Experienced, warm, and passionate about childcare

  • Flexible for daytime, evening, and weekend bookings

  • Matched to your family with care and intention


Engage a Trusted Babysitter Today

Whether you need an hour to yourself or regular weekly support, Cherished Cherubs Babysitting is here to help you feel more supported and less stressed.

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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