Babysitting might seem simple: show up, watch the kids, and keep them alive until the parents get home.
But the reality? It’s a lot more than just playing hide-and-seek and handing out snacks. Every family has its own set of rules, routines, and “don’t even think about it” situations. That’s why asking the right questions before you start is your golden ticket to a smooth babysitting experience.
Think about it—no one wants to get blindsided by a surprise allergy, a meltdown over the wrong bedtime story, or a house rule that no one mentioned. By asking parents the key questions upfront, you’re setting yourself up for success while proving to them that their kids are in great hands.
Table of Contents
Babysitter’s Role and Responsibilities
- Am I responsible for preparing meals or snacks?
- Should I help the child with any homework or educational tasks?
- Do you want me to tidy up after the child’s activities?
- Should I assist with dressing or hygiene routines?
- Am I responsible for bath time?
- Should I handle diaper changes or toilet training?
- Are there any household chores you expect me to do?
- Can I play music or use my phone for personal purposes?
- Should I supervise the child at all times, even during naps?
- Do you expect me to interact with other visitors or family members during babysitting?
- Should I manage the child’s interactions with siblings or friends?
- Are there any transportation duties, like taking the child to an activity?
- Should I track the child’s behavior or activities for feedback afterward?
- Can I use the home’s Wi-Fi or other resources if necessary?
- Are there specific instructions for handling the child’s belongings or toys?
Child’s Personal Information
- What is the child’s full name and nickname(s)?
- How old is the child?
- Does the child have any favorite toys, books, or comfort items?
- What activities does the child enjoy the most?
- Is the child shy, outgoing, or somewhere in between?
- Are there certain things that make the child feel nervous or scared?
- Does the child get along with siblings, if present, or prefers playing alone?
- What soothes the child if they get upset or have a tantrum?
- Does the child have a favorite bedtime story or song?
- Are there specific routines or rituals that make the child feel comfortable?
- What language(s) does the child understand or speak?
- Are there any specific ways the child communicates their needs or feelings?
- What should I know about the child’s temperament or personality?
- Does the child have a pet, and are there any special instructions about them?
- Are there any family or cultural practices I should incorporate into care?
Health, Medical Concerns, and Allergies
- Does the child have any allergies or dietary restrictions?
- Are there any medical conditions I need to be aware of?
- Does the child take any medications? If so, when and how should they be administered?
- Where can I find the child’s emergency medication, like an EpiPen or inhaler?
- Does the child have any specific triggers I should avoid?
- Are there any foods or drinks the child should not consume?
- What should I do if the child has a fever or gets sick while in my care?
- Does the child have any physical limitations or sensitivities I need to accommodate?
- Are there specific steps to follow if the child experiences an allergic reaction?
- Where can I find the first-aid kit and any other medical supplies?
- Has the child had any recent injuries or surgeries I should know about?
- Are there particular health routines (e.g., brushing teeth, using sunscreen) I should follow?
- How should I monitor the child’s health during babysitting (e.g., checking for signs of illness)?
- Should I be aware of any special instructions regarding the child’s hygiene?
- Who should I contact first in a medical emergency, and what is the backup plan?
Daily Routine, Schedule, and Sleep Arrangements
- What is the child’s usual wake-up and bedtime?
- Does the child take naps? If so, at what time?
- What does the child typically eat for meals and snacks?
- How should I handle feeding time—any specific instructions or routines?
- Are there specific times for play, learning, or quiet activities?
- Should I help the child with homework or educational activities?
- Does the child have any screen time restrictions?
- Are there specific steps for getting the child ready for bed?
- What should I do if the child refuses to follow their schedule?
- Where does the child sleep, and do they need any special items like a blanket?
- Are there any steps for a bedtime routine, like brushing teeth or reading?
- What should I do if the child has trouble sleeping or wakes up scared?
- Should I wake the child at a specific time in the morning?
- Are there any rituals or prayers the child follows during the day?
- What is the child’s usual mood during different times of the day?
Emergency Preparedness
- What is your home’s address in case I need to report it to emergency services?
- Where is the nearest hospital or urgent care clinic?
- Do you have a list of emergency contacts, including a neighbor or relative?
- Where can I find a fire extinguisher in your home?
- Are there specific exits or routes to use in case of a fire?
- Is there an alarm system I need to know how to use?
- Do you have specific instructions for handling power outages or natural disasters?
- Where are your smoke detectors located?
- Do you have a backup phone or charger in case my phone dies?
- Are there any locked rooms or areas I should avoid during emergencies?
- What is the best way to reach you in case of an emergency?
- How do I secure the house if I need to leave with the child?
- Are there any specific steps to take if the child gets hurt?
- Do you have a flashlight or candles for emergencies? If so, where are they?
- Are there neighborhood safety concerns I should be aware of?
Behavioral and Discipline Guidelines
- How do you usually handle tantrums or bad behavior?
- Are there specific behaviors that require a time-out?
- Do you use any positive reinforcement strategies?
- Should I follow specific disciplinary actions, or leave it to you?
- What are the house rules I should enforce?
- How do I address sibling conflicts, if applicable?
- Are there any words or phrases that comfort the child during emotional moments?
- Should I report every instance of misbehavior or handle it myself?
- How should I respond if the child refuses to follow instructions?
- Are there specific ways to encourage the child to share or play fairly?
- What is your policy on rewards or consequences for good or bad behavior?
- Are there specific actions or triggers that upset the child?
- How should I redirect the child when they’re engaging in inappropriate activities?
- Should I allow the child to negotiate rules or stick to them firmly?
- What are the best ways to calm the child if they’re having a meltdown?
Parental Contact and Availability
- How should I contact you if I need help?
- Can I text you for non-emergency updates about the child?
- Should I let you know when the child has gone to bed?
- What’s the best way to reach you if there’s an issue—call or text?
- Are you okay with video calls if the child asks for you?
- Can I leave a voicemail if I can’t get through?
- Are there times when you’ll be unavailable to respond?
- Who else can I contact if you’re unreachable?
- Should I send you pictures or updates about activities?
- Do you want to be informed about minor incidents, like spills?
- Are there specific things you want updates about during babysitting?
- Should I let you know if I need to leave earlier or stay later than planned?
- How should I report any household or pet-related issues?
- Can I check in with you before bedtime to confirm everything?
- Do you prefer updates during or after the babysitting session?
Entertainment and Activities
- What are the child’s favorite toys or games?
- Are there specific activities the child isn’t allowed to do?
- Does the child enjoy outdoor play? If so, where can I take them safely?
- Are there any educational games or tasks you’d like me to include?
- Should I limit certain activities, like screen time?
- Does the child like arts and crafts? If so, where are the supplies?
- Are there any board games or puzzles they enjoy?
- Should I encourage specific skills, like reading or drawing?
- Are there any physical activities the child particularly likes?
- What music or shows are appropriate for the child?
- Does the child enjoy group activities or prefer playing alone?
- Should I avoid certain themes or characters in entertainment?
- Are there books or stories you’d like me to read to them?
- Should I engage the child in helping with simple tasks, like tidying up?
- What activities help calm the child down after an active session?
Final Thoughts
Asking the right questions before you start shows parents you’re prepared, responsible, and genuinely care about their child’s well-being. Trust me, those few minutes of upfront conversation can save you a ton of stress later on.
At the end of the day, every family is different, and knowing the little details about their routines, rules, and expectations makes all the difference. I
