Five Tips For Getting A Holiday Babysitter

Like most parents, you may need to hire a babysitter for at least one holiday gathering or party this season. Some parents will have many nights that they will need a sitter. Unfortunately, sometimes it seems like all the good babysitters already have plans.

Here are top five tips for getting a great sitter this season.

1. Start planning early. The earlier you call a sitter, the more likely they are to still have open days on their calendar. Even before Thanksgiving, many babysitters start filling their holiday calendars. New Year’s Eve may seem a long way off, but you would be surprised at how many babysitters already have the night reserved.

2. Offer to swap kids. Call another parent and see if they can watch your kids for your party and in return you can watch theirs when they need a night out. Not only will it save you money, but it may also give your kids a needed play date while you are out.

3. Have a backup plan. If your sitter gets the flu, you will need a backup. Make sure you have alternatives in a pinch.

4. Develop the reputation for paying babysitters well. If you pay well enough, a sitter will keep those dates open for your family anytime.

5. Try the internet. If you can’t find an available sitter, try a internet matchmaking service that matches parents to potential sitters. They usually have a large list of local sitters with rave reviews and will provide you with that list and background checks for less than the price of a night out!

Don’t let the time get past you. Follow these tips and ease the stress of the holidays with a great babysitter.

By: Beth Howland

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Beth Howland is a reviewer of parenting products like Sittercity. If you need help finding the right sitter for your family, visit www.SittercityReview.com for more information.