How to Find the Right Summer Sitter

While school-age kids anxiously await the summer months, many parents feel stressed because their schedules don’t change, and they need to make sure their kids are cared for.

Summer camp is a popular option, but it may not be the best fit for every family. Some families benefit from hiring a summer sitter that can offer individualized attention and work around a family’s schedule. A summer sitter may also be a cost-effective option for families with multiple kids, plus they offer peace of mind, being more readily available to answer texts or calls.

So how do you find the right caregiver for those sunny school-free days? Check out these invaluable tips:

Start early. Many families with working parents and school-age children will be looking, so don’t wait until June. Potential candidates may have already accepted other jobs by then.

Spread the word. Let friends, family, and coworkers know that you are looking for a sitter. You can also check online sources like Care.com, local college job boards, or neighborhood Facebook groups.

Interview. Get to know a candidate a little better over the phone or on Zoom first before scheduling an in-person meeting at a local park or, if you’re comfortable, your home. Ask open-ended questions to learn more about candidates versus questions that elicit yes or no answers. References are important, too, and you’ll definitely want to check those for anyone you’re serious about hiring.

Consider likeability. It’s encouraging when a sitter nails the interview and has great references. However, you’ll also want to hire a sitter that both you and your kids just plain like! Is the person genuinely interested in your kids? Can you see yourself talking to this caregiver every day, even if there’s a miscommunication to discuss?

Have a detailed job description prepared. Consider what days of the week and hours you need a sitter. Will you require any certifications, like CPR? Jot down a list of the sitter’s expected duties, from tidying up the playroom at the end of the day to taking the kids to the pool.

Communicate expectations around play dates. It may be agreeable that your child’s best friend comes over to play sometimes, but it would be unfair to invite all the neighborhood kids over to be watched daily.

Safety first. You’ll also want a summer sitter with a basic understanding of first aid as well as how to apply sunscreen and bug spray. If you expect them to take your kids to the pool or lake, you’ll want to ensure they can swim and understand basic water safety rules.

Pay. There are many factors to consider when determining what to pay a summer sitter. These include where you live, the number of kids they’ll be watching, how much experience the sitter has, as well as the expectations for the job. Check with family, friends, and that neighborhood Facebook group to inform you about the going rates in your area.

It’s also important to discuss up front who pays for activities, like bowling or miniature golf, as well as transportation costs, like gas, if you expect the sitter to use a personal vehicle.

Vacation time. Make sure your sitter knows when your family will be taking vacation. Don’t forget to ask for the dates when your sitter is planning their vacation.

Finally, if your summer sitter is an excellent match for your family, then stay in touch throughout the year. It may be an easy match for next summer, too.