Babysitter Instructions Checklist: 23 Items

Leave reachable guardian numbers, a nearby trusted adult and the full home address. Show where emergency supplies are kept and how the sitter can obtain help locally.

Write down meals, allergies, bedtime, permitted activities and off-limits areas. Be explicit about food or medication the sitter must not give without guardian direction.

Review doors, safe exits, home hazards and the ages and needs of each child. A quick walk-through is more useful than a long instruction sheet nobody can find.

Set the return time, communication method and how to handle unexpected delays. Make sure the sitter understands when to contact emergency services first.

Place the home address, guardian contact numbers, an authorized backup and the local emergency number together. Walk through what counts as urgent and when to call emergency services. Contacts must reflect the country and household; do not assume a US-specific number applies everywhere.

Parents or guardians should communicate allergies, feeding restrictions, screen limits and bedtimes before leaving. For younger children, document approved sleeping arrangements. A sitter should not give medication or unfamiliar food without the guardian’s instructions.

Explain which rooms, outdoor areas and activities are allowed, whether guests may visit, and who is authorized to pick up the children. Check that the sitter knows exits, locks and important supplies. If the sitter is unfamiliar with the children, allow time to meet and discuss routines.

Agree on check-in times, expected return and an escalation path if the guardian is delayed. At handover, discuss meals, rest, incidents and any unusual behavior, then return keys or temporary access arrangements.