Babysitter Checklist

From time to time, every parent has to leave their child in the care of someone else. Whether that caregiver is a grandparent, family friend, or neighborhood teenager, be sure that they have the following information before leaving them alone with your child. Though some of the information may seem unnecessary (such as your name or your child's date of birth), you don't want the caregiver to have to try remember relevant information during an emergency.

Child's Information

• Child's full name
• Home address
• Home phone number
• Child's date of birth
• Any allergies or other medical problems
• Special instructions on caring for child (bedtimes, feeding instructions, etc.)

Parent's Information

• Parents' full names
• Parents' cell phone numbers
• Place where the parents can be reached

Emergency Information

• Emergency phone numbers (police, fire, and ambulance)
• Poison Control number
• Medical release signed by parents (brief statement authorizing caregiver to obtain medical treatment for child in an emergency
• Pediatrician's phone number and child's chart number

Emergency Contacts

• Name and phone number of nearby neighbor
• Names and phone numbers of close relatives or family friends

You may also be interested in Shopping Around for Child Care.

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