35 Of The Most Delusional Posts From Entitled Parents Seeking Babysitters

Finding a babysitter for the very first time is a responsible moment mixed with nervous anticipation and excitement. After all, it’s the person you will be entrusting your child to. And while grandparents, friends and relatives seem like the perfect babysitters for some, in reality, welcoming a stranger to your family is a much more viable option for everyone.

But the challenge is not entrusting your child to the hand of a person you don’t really know but feel good about; the challenge is to find a good one and when you do, keep it in your family. However, many parents often commit babysitting sins, making the job a living nightmare for the nannies.

Little things count. Inviting neighborhood kids without adding extra pay, or being late without warning and not offering any monetary compensation are among common faux pas. Some parents even seek to pay their nannies with goods and/or food rather than money. Being clear about payment from the very first day, whether it’s the transfer date or the exact sum of money, is crucial in order not to make it awkward well into the job.

Communication is key and not every babysitter can immediately pick up what you want them to do for their child. Guessing games usually don’t lead anywhere, so the first days should be spent together introducing your lifestyle, family habits, things the kid likes or doesn’t, as well as showing them around the house. Making sure you’re clear about routines and expectations will make their job easier and your mind clear.

But experts say communication should not stop at the introduction week. Maintaining a good, healthy bond with your babysitter is key, even if that means remodeling some things that don’t work. For example, if a late return is going to put your babysitter in a difficult position with public transport, then it’s worth thinking how you can help—whether by paying for a taxi, or offering to drive them home.