When families are looking for a babysitter, they usually check off a list of criteria. They want someone responsible and patient with knowledge of child care and safety. Sitters interviewing for the job often make an effort to show the parents that they have these desired qualities. But what if we stop and consider what kids might want in a sitter?
We’re not talking about a “dream sitter” who just gives them candy all day, of course. Rather, it’s important to consider kids’ preferences. After all, the children are the ones who will be spending the most time with the babysitter. If parents ask their kids’ opinions, it helps them feel part of the process and gets them excited about their new caregiver. And when sitters consider the children’s desires, as well as the parents’, they’ll find it easier to create a connection with the kids they care for.
Here are nine characteristics children might want in a babysitter:
1. Energetic
It’s important for children to get along with their sitter. Generally, kids tend to get along best with sitters who like to play the same games as them—for example, hide-and-seek or pillow fights. Depending on the child, games that involve a lot of movement can be real winners. If this is the case with your child, try to find an active and energetic sitter.
2. Extroverted
Kids want their babysitters to be creative and talkative extroverts who will relate to their level of play and do fun activities. A sitter who just sits and texts on their phone should get a quick thumbs down from kids—and parents.
3. Open-minded
It’s no secret that kids love to play. So, a sitter who is willing to play how your kids want to play is a must. Kids like people who aren’t afraid to be silly. Without a doubt, kids will feel a lot better when the babysitter plays with them, is relaxed, and is willing to do most any task (even goofy ones).
4. Establishes boundaries
Kids also like routines. Even if they don’t realize it, they thrive in predictable environments. Kids want a babysitter who isn’t afraid to set boundaries and work within the routine already developed within a household.
5. Creative
Kids have a lot of energy. To keep them entertained, a babysitter needs to be really creative. Being able to think of new and innovative ideas is especially imperative for toddlers with short attention spans. Keeping them engaged on one task can be nearly impossible at times, so having a sitter who can think on their feet is a must. Children will look forward to seeing someone who always brings new ideas for activities and games.
6. Kind
This one should be a no-brainer—kids want to feel like the person who is taking care of them is happy to spend the day with them, and parents obviously want someone who is kind to their kids, too.
7. Intelligent
Whether they admit it or not, kids like to be challenged. And they also like to be able to ask an adult a question and actually receive an answer. It makes for more lively discussions and more engagement for the child.
8. Responsible
All children, regardless of age, want a babysitter who makes them feel safe. This is absolutely essential. They need to feel like they can trust the sitter and their judgment. That means being a quick thinker, as well as confident and focused.
9. Fun
Last, but certainly not least, kids want a babysitter who is fun! And that doesn’t just mean someone willing to play games all day—if a sitter is able to make ordinary tasks such as eating lunch or brushing teeth enjoyable for the kid, they’re definitely a winner.
Luckily, there’s a lot of overlap in what parents and kids look for in a babysitter. And where there are differences, it’s all about finding a happy medium. A good sitter is someone who not only meets parents’ criteria but also matches what the kids want in a caregiver.