So little munchkin is going to stay with a baby-sitter coming up. He's stayed with our parents and our friends in Alaska but this is our first call up a baby-sitter experience. So what's your advice for a first time mom? I don't want to be overboard and leave an entire page of typed out instructions or anything but I want the baby-sitters (who have raised kids of their own so it's not like they don't know how to do this) to have some idea of ways to comfort him, his schedule, etc. I always get such good ideas from you guys so I thought I'd ask. Thanks! Kelly
9 comments:
Hey Kelly; speaking as a VERY experienced babysitter; everything will be fine! There's no harm in leaving a list; definitely his schedule; how to reach you; and where things are; and maybe a few fav things of his and things that help. Good luck! Good seeing you the other day!
Leave whatever information makes you feel more comfortable with leaving him. Make a list--write it all down and then give it to the baby-sitter. Just don't go over it line by line with her. She will have it if she needs to know something to comfort him or to know his routine. In 2008 we left the girls with my mom to go on a four day cruise. I made a list even for her. It just made me feel better to know that since she wouldn't be able to just call us she would be able to look and see what she could do in certain situations. Have fun on your date! :-)
I'd leave info on how to comfort him and contact you if he just can't be comforted. Other than that, I'm sure he'll be better off than you!
Just relax and enjoy yourself!
Hey, Kel! I've always believed in the importance of going out on regular kidless dates. Our boys just know that's the norm now.
all the same, kids love routine and it's statistically shown to decrease anxiety for them if you create a routine early on. So, it's fine for you to ask the person you've hired to respect the routine.
When they were babies I would make a one page typed up sheet and titled it as a Guideline to set the babysitter up for success. And then I'd explain that the night will go so much better for both of you if the routine is upheld for the most part. I just list what happens in about 30 min or hour increments.
It's worked beautifully for us, and I look forward to hearing about your date!
-Marla
What a big boy!! Love all the pictures of him....what is his name? Did I miss it when you shared it? Such a cutie pie!! have a great time on you outing :)
I left a full newsletter thing of info. Like sub plans. I felt good and then I could enjoy myself knowing I'd said everything. The sitters never seem to mind. Now that she's older I do much less....but don't feel bad making sub plans:):)! Enjoy date night!!
Everything will be great. I would gather the things he likes (binkie, blanket, favorite stuffed animal) and leave them in one place (on a chair or in a basket) and that way you can just tell the babysitter that those are his favorite things.
Do the same with bottles/formula so the sitter doesnt have to go looking for them.
Leave a cell number than go out and have a good time!!
this is a great picture!
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