When you hire a babysitter, it is very likely you will hire a teenager. Unfortunately, not all young people are mature and responsible. You have to make sure that you stress the need for adherence to house rules, and for doing their job diligently.

When you meet with them prior to their babysitting visit, emphasize a few points.

Babysitting Rules

- The babysitter must avoid using foul language. Your children will be quick to pick vulgar words up. Some teenagers use a lot of these words as a form of rebellion or simply for shock value. While it is not your business if they use it outside of your house, it is very much your business if they use it in front of your kids.

- The babysitter may not smoke or drink during the visit. Secondhand smoking is more dangerous to the lungs than actual smoking, and you would not want to endanger your kid’s health. It is very important that the sitter does not drink, even before the visit. You would not want an intoxicated person in charge of your children’s safety.

- There are to be no visitors in the house. You can never be too sure what the babysitter’s friends are like. Some teenagers have the penchant for house parties. She might think she is inviting only a couple of friends over, but will find out too late that they have also brought a bunch of other friends along.

- There must be strict moderation rules on the use of the phone, television, or computer. Your babysitter might spend the entire night online or chatting with a friend. It is useful to ask her about her detailed plans for activities with the children so that she will have to adhere to them.

Make sure you are firm with your babysitter. There are many sitters that tend to be abusive or lazy. Make it clear that you are putting your trust in her and expect her not to break that trust.

By: Rashel Dan

About the Author: