When your little one has finally established somewhat of a sleep routine, you might want to head out and enjoy some time with your other half. This requires the need of a babysitter. Getting a sitter, especially someone not in your family, can be daunting the first time round.
To make it a little easier on both you and your toddler, follow these tips:
Tell your little one what’s going to happen
Even if your toddler will be asleep while you are gone, it is important you tell them that someone else will be looking after them that evening. This way, if they do wake up in the middle of the night they won’t be frightened by the fact that someone other than you is trying to comfort them.
Introduce the sitter before
Don’t introduce your toddler to their sitter just as you are running out the door. If possible, arrange for them to spend an hour or two together before so that they can become used to one another.
Prepare bottles, clothes etc.
Before you leave, make sure you have prepared a spare bottle, some snacks and a change of clothes just in case. Not only will this make the job easier on the sitter, it will also mean that your little one won’t be distressed for no reason while the minder tries to prepare things to soothe them.
Make it fun
If the minder is going to be looking after your toddler before they go to bed, try to make it become fun time. Organise games, colouring materials and anything else to ensure your little one will be having too much fun to miss you.
Start off gradually
If this is the first time someone other than you is minding your youngster, avoid going out for too long. A trip to the cinema or for a meal is long enough to get your little one used to others minding them. You can gradually increase the time away when you are both used to it.
Don’t make a big deal about it
While you should talk to your little one about their new sitter, avoid telling them that you will miss them. This will just cause them to feel anxious. And when heading out the door, a quick kiss and a cuddle should be enough. Don’t prolong the goodbye.
