Planning your child's first babysitting experience and feeling a bit nervous?

The first time your child is looked after by someone other than a parent can be a big moment – for both of you. Whether you're hiring a professional babysitter or leaving your child with trusted friends, good preparation can ease the transition and build confidence. 

1. Talk about it early and clearly

Start preparing your child in advance. For toddlers and preschoolers, a simple sentence is enough:
"Today, someone will come to play with you. Mommy will step out for a bit and then come back."
Older children can be given more details about who is coming and what to expect.

2. Arrange an introduction in advance

Ideally, schedule a short meeting with the babysitter before the first actual session. This allows the child to meet the new person while you're still there, helping to create a foundation of trust. At Susie's Babysitting, we offer a first hour meeting free of charge – we know how important it is.

3. Provide something familiar

A favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or book can work wonders. Familiar objects help children feel safe and grounded, even in new situations.

4. Stay calm and positive

Children pick up on our emotions. If you're nervous or hesitant, your child will sense it. Try to say goodbye with a smile and a calm tone. A short and clear farewell is often better than a drawn-out emotional one.

5. Share your child's routine and preferences

Let the babysitter know your child's typical routine: when they eat, nap, how they fall asleep, and which activities they enjoy. At Susie's, we use a family registration form to gather this information, helping us deliver a tailored experience that fits your child's needs.

6. Set the babysitter up for success

Make sure the sitter has access to everything they may need: diapers, wipes, food, spare clothes, and emergency contacts. If you've booked our hotel babysitting service, we can even bring our own "Fun Toy Box" full of games and activities.

7. Start with shorter sessions

If possible, begin with a short babysitting session. This helps your child gradually get used to being in someone else's care, making future experiences easier.

🧡 Conclusion: Even the first babysitting can feel smooth

Babysitting is a normal and important part of modern parenting. With trust, patience, and the right preparation, the first babysitting experience can become a pleasant and reassuring event – for the child, the parents, and the babysitter.

It's also a meaningful opportunity to support healthy development both in the family and beyond.
For parents, time away from their children provides much-needed space to rest, recharge, or spend time as a couple. Taking care of your own mental well-being – known as psychological hygiene – is not a luxury, but a cornerstone of happy parenting. Whether it's a quiet coffee, a short walk, or a romantic dinner, small breaks can make a big difference.

Meanwhile, children gain new experiences, learn to trust others, and develop emotional resilience. Being cared for by a kind and playful sitter outside the family circle helps them adapt to changes, builds social skills, and prepares them for preschool or group settings. When the babysitter speaks another language, it also introduces natural exposure to foreign languages and different cultures, which can enrich your child's worldview and open their minds.

Step by step, your child learns that even when mom or dad steps away for a while, the world remains a safe, friendly, and joyful place. And that's one of the best gifts you can give them.