The moment a new babysitter walks through your door can be filled with a mix of hope and apprehension. While you’re looking forward to a much-needed night out, your child might be feeling nervous about the new person. The way you handle this initial introduction is vital for building a positive relationship and making every future babysitting experience a success.
Here is a guide to the key dos and don’ts to ensure the first meeting is a great one.
The Dos: Your Checklist for a Positive Introduction
Do: Start with a “Meet and Greet” If possible, schedule a brief, unpaid meet-and-greet a few days before the actual sitting. This allows the child to see you and the sitter interacting and to get comfortable with the new person in a low-pressure environment. It also gives the sitter a chance to see your home and get a feel for the children’s personalities.
Do: Use Positive and Exciting Language Frame the babysitter’s arrival as a fun event. Instead of saying, “Your dad and I are leaving,” say, “Guess who’s here to play with you tonight! Sarah is going to help you build your LEGO castle and have a dance party.” This builds anticipation and excitement rather than focusing on the separation.
Do: Involve the Child in the Handover Involve your child in the process. You can show the sitter where the toys are and say, “Why don’t you show Sarah your favourite book?” This puts the child in a position of control and makes them feel like a key part of the plan.
Do: Keep Your Departure Quick and Confident Once the sitter is settled and engaged with your child, make your goodbye swift and cheerful. A simple, “Mummy and Daddy are going now! We’ll see you later. Have fun!” followed by a hug and a quick exit is the best approach. A long, drawn-out farewell can signal to the child that something is wrong.
The Don’ts: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t: Sneak Out Sneaking out might seem like a good way to avoid a tearful goodbye, but it can backfire. As child psychologists and parenting experts warn, it can cause children to feel betrayed and can lead to heightened anxiety in the future, as they may worry you will leave without saying goodbye again.
Don’t: Lie About Your Return Time Be honest. If you’re going out for the evening, don’t say you’ll be back in five minutes. Reassure them that you will be back later, and a good tip is to tie your return to a specific event, like after they’ve had a bath and are in their pajamas.
Don’t: Overcomplicate the Handover Resist the urge to give the sitter a final, frantic list of instructions at the door. Have your babysitting kit ready and prepared beforehand so the handover is calm and efficient.
Don’t: Show Your Own Anxiety Children are incredibly perceptive. They can sense your stress and anxiety. If you look worried or feel guilty about leaving, your child will pick up on it and may become more upset. Maintain a calm and confident demeanour, even if you’re a little nervous inside.
Conclusion
A positive first experience is the foundation for a long and trusting relationship with a babysitter. By approaching the introduction with a clear plan, honest communication, and a calm attitude, you not only make the process easier for your child but also demonstrate to your professional sitter that you value their expertise and professionalism. A smooth introduction is the first step toward a well-deserved, worry-free night out.
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