Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Baby Sitter Guidelines
Your baby sitter becomes a "surrogate parent" during your
absence. He or she should be selected with care and
prepared with explicit instructions. Before you entrust
your most precious possession(s) to the care of a sitter, go
over the following:
- Where you will be, how you can be reached, and when you
will return.
- Important phone numbers: police, fire, poison control
center, hospital, children's physician, ambulance. Post
near the phone.
- The name and number of a nearby friend, neighbor, or
relative.
- Rules about friends, T.V., stereo, telephone, outdoor
play, snacks, sleeping. (Applies to child and sitter.)
- Warnings about not opening the door to strangers and
hanging up immediately on crank callers.
- Proper response to callers.
- The location of first aid supplies, emergency exits, fire
extinguishers, toys, clothing, snacks, and other items.
- Special instructions about such things as child's fears,
bedtime routine, or family pets.
- Potential hazards like stairways, appliances, open doors
or windows, purses or overnight cases.
- Rough or otherwise dangerous play is not to be tolerated.
- Young children should never be left unattended even while
in a high chair, walker, or stroller.
- If absolutely necessary, leave explicit directions
regarding medication or bathing procedures. (These
activities require utmost care and should not be expected
of sitters.)
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