Babysitter Interview Questions

Many parents wonder what questions should be asked of a potential babysitter during the interview process. Before you hire a sitter, there are some common-sense questions to ask. These questions will help you get a handle on the sitter's qualifications and comfort level with babysitting your kids. The most important thing, regardless of the answers to the questions, is your gut feeling about whether you are comfortable trusting this baby sitter with your children.

1. What made you decide to become a sitter?
2. Did you ever sit for your own younger siblings?
3. What's your experience sitting with children who are my children's ages?
4. How do you typically deal with crying babies or toddler tantrums?
5. Have you taken any babysitting or first aid courses?
6. Do you know infant or child CPR?
7. What activities do you like to do with kids when you are watching them?
8. Do you drive or will you need a ride?
9. Can you cook something simple? Give some examples here, such as scrambled eggs, grilled cheese or boiled pasta.
10. Do you know how to change a diaper?
11. Have you ever given a bath to kids while babysitting?
12. Are you able to make sure that the kids clean up toys they played with before going to bed?
13. What do you charge for babysitting? Remember that if you have multiple kids, or your kids are rather difficult at bedtime or have a hard time when you leave, higher compensation may be appropriate.
14. Can you give me references of other families who have hired you to babysit that I could call?

Remember that when you actually have the sitter in your home, you should go over all emergency numbers, how to reach you, expectations regarding cleanup and food (can the sitter eat a snack or give the kids a treat?), bedtime expectations, TV rules, etc.

It can also be a good idea to have the sitter come over just to meet and play with the kids for 30 minutes or so before the first official sitting job. Establishing familiarity can make the transition smoother for all concerned. It also gives you a chance to go over your expectations when you're not rushed to get out the door.