Five Quick Babysitting Options

In a jam? Here are five quick child care solutions

By Haley Overland

Got last minute plans and no babysitter? How many times have you been stuck cancelling plans because your go-to sitter had to bail? Well, it’s time to create that backup plan. Because you need to have fun too – and peace of mind when you leave the kids at home. Here are five quick and reliable babysitting solutions you can count on when you’re in a jam.

1. Family members or neighbours that you trust. If you’re lucky enough to have Grandma nearby, or an eager, responsible neighbour, give them a call. If your neighbour agrees to babysit, be sure to offer compensation, dinner, some money for takeout, or send coffee the next morning.

2. Friends’ kids. The benefit of having a friend’s teenager babysit your child is, of course, that you and your children will know your babysitter well. Your friends will love that you’re giving their child the opportunity to earn some extra cash and take on some good responsibility. Bonus!

3. Friends’ nannies. If they’re good enough for your friends’ kids, and especially if you’ve seen them in action, they’re good enough for yours. One rule of thumb, though: always check with your friends first to see if you can borrow their nanny – because you never know if they need a babysitter, too, that night (this is also standard etiquette that parents who don’t have nannies often learn the hard way).

4. Daycare or preschool assistant. The staff at the gym daycare, a preschool assistant or teacher’s helper are all excellent options for babysitters. Grab their phone numbers when you can, and call them when you’re in a pinch. They know your children well, and you know where they work! So you can go out and have a good time without fretting.

5. Nanny or babysitting services. There are many reliable national nanny services that you can call when you’re in a jam. These babysitters are thoroughly screened and often have advanced childhood education degrees. The only drawback is the added administration fee, but it’s worth it for the quick fix, the trust and peace of mind - knowing your child will have a good night, too.