Before the Babysitter Cares for Your Child

Here are suggestions for what parents should do. Before you choose a new babysitter or leave the sitter alone with your child for the first time, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests you take the following precautions:

• Choose a sitter who has good references and has training in first aid and CPR.
• Make sure the sitter is mature, knows what to do in an emergency and is at least 13 years old.
• Give the sitter a tour of your home, and encourage the sitter to show up well before you need to leave.
• Provide instructions in the event of a fire, including offering detailed escape plans.
• Direct the sitter on how and when to feed, bathe and "tuck in" your child.
• Be sure that your sitter knows about any health conditions affecting your child, including any allergies.
• Inform your sitter of where you're going and when you'll be back.