Dumb question for the parents at DU

How the hell do you find a non-family babysitter? I usually have family pitch in when I can but I need to find other options. I'm willing to pay better than the average wage and I know how to screen references and stuff, but how do I find the people willing to do it? Keep in mind that I have virtually no social network of people to ask...probably because I don't yet have a regular babysitter. :P

Or behind the bowling alley. :shrug:

No idea.

But that has to do with our social network. :crazy:

Sorry.

I found the best sitters from other parents. When I moved to a new area, I would just ask other parents at the park or pre-school. I also found some from teachers who were neighbors. The best resource was church and babysitting coops. Good luck.

That's how we found ours. We live in a small community so it may not be an option for you if you live in a larger city-in which case forget I said anything.

We are in a very small town on the outskirts of a bigger town. That might be a good option. Thanks (to you and everyone else so far...love the help).

They told me when I called the high school that they are absolutely NOT allowed to do that. Apparently the culture of paranoia has even infiltrated my small town. Any other suggestions, anyone? I very desperately need to find a once-a-week babysitter by January 9 so I can get to one of my classes.

in your area and call them and ask about a sitter. Its takes some sense and responsibility to decide to go take a babysitter course to begin with. Plus you know they have some training. http://www.redcross.org/services/hss/courses/babyindex.html

Another option is in my state Social Services has list of licensed Family Daycare you can ask for. Both are worth a try.
If your class is a college class see if they have child care or know of anyone students needing a little extra cash.

We've found one that loves to spend time with our baby, and apparently enjoys the wage we'll pay, as well.

Good luck.

Many of them offer a babysitting course, and will refer graduates.

How about a Girl Scout troop? You could ask the leaders. Either way, I would meet the parents first, of course--so everyone feels comfortable. Are there any youth groups at churches or other orgs? Their advisors might be able to help. My best ones came from getting to know the daughters (no sons in our area) of the neighbors, even tho' I didn't really know the parents at first. Getting to know the girls helped me get to know my neighbors. Good luck!:)

Some local communities list babysitters in their newsletters. Schools and daycares usually are aware of good babysitters.

The best bet would be to talk to other parents. Who do they use? Who do they trust? Ask neighbors with kids of the same age as yours. I don't know the age of your kid, but if I assume the kid is school age or daycare age - check with the school or daycare.

Ask other family members - surely they have been in the same situation as you, the family isn't available at any given time. So who do they trust to look after their children? Ask your friends.

Check with the local high school. That one is a good source but can be nerve-wracking - really want some teen looking after your kid? Nevertheless, many of them make good baby sitters.

There are also professional companies who provide child care when you need a babysitter. Check your yellow pages. You'll pay a little more but they are usually licensed and bonded. And have been pre-screened.

Good luck.

Khash.

my family pediatrician. Our regular sitter came from our pediatrician. She has been his patient since she was a baby and is now 16. She has been sitting for us for almost 6 months and has been wonderful. If you are not comfortable with a 15-16 year old, you may need to go to the nearest college. Good luck.