Things Your "Baby Sitter"needs to know
Besides your cell phone number and when you'll be home:,
* tell Her/(*)Him:What you expect...BE SPECIFIC. Put it in writing.
* If you don't want her/(*)him (or your kids') friends over, say so.
* Ditto if you don't want her talking on her/his cell phone.
Say something like:, "If friends call, blame us and say you can't talk because you're babysitting."
The house rules
Go over these in front of your kids to ward off any temptation to take advantage of your absence.
Be specific about bedtime, too (example's, by 8 P.M. your daughter'(*)s)/son's(*) needs to be tucked in with their fuzzy pink blanket and Mister Bunny).
When to call
Is it:
* If your toddler has been crying for more than 20 minutes after you leave?
* If siblings are fighting?
* Only if there's blood?
Where to find everything
* Give a house tour.
* Point out exits, phones and the first-aid kit.
* Be sure to leave a list of emergency numbers.
* How much you appreciate her Call if (*)she/he is going to be more than 15 minutes late.
* Pay in cash when you get home and ask how things went.
* If she feels valued, she's likely to return.
Source: Patricia A Keene M.D., founder and medical director, Safe Sitter
Syntax (*)& highlights added by page author.