Have cameras and a security system in the home:
There have been several stories in the news of caregivers who were caught on camera being verbally or even physically abusive to children in their care – and the parents were often shocked because they did not pick up on any warning signs during the hiring process.
A home security system can keep your little ones and their caregiver safe from crimes like burglary or home invasion, and also have the ability to immediately contact fire and rescue personnel or law enforcement at the push of a button. Many new security systems have camera options that allow you to keep an eye on what’s going on in your home from your phone or computer.
The officer tells Romper:
Be very specific on where they can go and what they can do with your child, too. Ask them about park safety, sun safety, and food safety. Accidents can and will happen, and kids hurt themselves all the time. Find out how your babysitter would respond. Make a clear and decisive plan.
Trust your gut. If you don’t click with the feeling, even if they’re charming and answer everything correctly, listen to it. It doesn’t matter if their references are fine and they’ve never received so much as a speeding ticket, if your gut says no — move on. “Your gut knows more than you do sometimes,” he says.
While these are the most important guidelines to follow when hiring a sitter or nanny, there are a million other little details that are important to let any caregiver know when watching your child. These tips are helpful for even your most trusted family and friends to know when alone with your child.
Care.com suggests:
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Demonstrate how to use all safety devices that you have installed (e.g., gates, latches, locks, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, etc.)
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Point out where you store important supplies, such as flashlights, first-aid kits and fire extinguishers.
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Identify any areas of your home that are off-limits to your children.
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Clue her in on your kids’ favorite hiding spots.
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Write down everything that you discuss with the sitter so that she has reference materials in your absence.
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Explain the child’s bedtime and nap time rituals.
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Is he/she allowed to drive your kids anywhere? If so, clearly communicate protocol for car seats and seat belts.
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Remind the sitter to place a baby on its back to sleep at night and at naptime and reiterate that there should be nothing in the crib but the baby.