Babysitter Advice

MrsRossIsMe

I was given the name of a girl who is the daughter of the principal of Ethan's school. I would need her to do a Saturday night in March. Should I have her come before then to meet the kids, or just introduce her that night?

She's 16 years old. My MIL knows her as well, since the girl went to the school and said she's a nice kid.

Thoughts? Advice?

TSD

It depends on your kids. My Ethan could be introduced to someone the same night I was leaving him with the person. 

JessiJane777

I would meet her first, just to let the kids get to know her.  If she comes recommended, then I say that's a good first step.  And if you like her and need a sitter before March, you can see is she's available.

MrsDB

i don't think you need to since she's not a stranger in the danger sense. but go with what you think is best for your kids, or consider having her come an hour early or something.

hookersbabe

for my kid, it would be better for her to meet her beforehand...

AmyRob04

I always have new sitters come over first to meet the kid, meet the dogs, and get to know the house a bit. Even if your kids are very adaptable, oull get the introductions and instructions and stuff out of the way, rather than dealing within night-of (and this way if you don't like her you have time to canceling her!). 

TARAnj

I would have her come and meet the kids. Run some errands for an hour and pay her for that hour. this way the kids know who is coming..and don't freak the night you go out in March.

JessicaLovesBrian

I would have her come over first.  Maybe spend an hour or two being a "mother's helper" with pay if you can swing it.  For my kids it just makes things easier to be familar with the person beforehand.

debfife

I'd have her come in advance but my kid has major stranger anxiety.