The First Time You Leave Your Child With a Babysitter

For many parents, the first time leaving their child with a babysitter feels bigger than it looks on paper.

Even when everything is planned, questions tend to creep in: Will they be okay? What if they cry? What if I've forgotten to mention something important?

If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. What we've seen time and time again is that parents are often far more nervous than their children — and that's completely natural.

Children Take Their Cues From You

One of the most important things to remember is this: children closely watch their parents' reactions.

Before they decide how they feel about a new person, they look to you.

If you seem calm, relaxed and open, children usually mirror that energy. If you're anxious, rushed or hesitant, they sense it immediately — even if you don't say a word.

In many cases, the way a child accepts a babysitter is directly connected to how the parent does.

That's why the introduction matters more than we often realize.

Introduce the Babysitter as a Friend, Not a Signal That You're Leaving

A common mistake — and a very understandable one — is treating the babysitter's arrival as the moment to quickly say goodbye and head out the door.

For a child, that can feel abrupt. Over time, it can also create an association:

Babysitter arrives → parents leave.

When that connection forms, some children may begin to resist the babysitter — not because of who they are, but because of what their arrival represents.

Instead, we always encourage parents to slow things down.

Take a Few Minutes Together

Sit on the floor. Play together. Read a book. Let your child see you interacting warmly with the babysitter.

When a child observes their parent laughing, talking and feeling at ease with someone new, it sends a powerful message: This person is safe. This person is a friend.

Those first few minutes help build trust far more effectively than explanations ever could.

What's Important to Share With Your Babysitter

Clear communication also plays a big role in helping everyone feel comfortable.

Before you leave, make sure your babysitter knows:

your child's routine (meals, naps, bedtime)
any allergies or sensitivities
house rules and boundaries
what comforts your child when they're upset
anything that feels important or specific to your family

Babysitters aren't there to change how you parent. Their role is to follow your instructions, respect your routines and create a safe, warm environment within the framework you've already established.

At the same time, it's natural — and healthy — for them to build their own bond with your child through play, conversation and shared moments.

Both things can exist at the same time.

Trust Takes Time — and That's Okay

Leaving your child for the first time is rarely effortless. It's a process, not a switch you flip.

But with a calm introduction, clear communication and a little patience, those first experiences often become much easier — for both parents and children.

We've seen it many times: once parents relax, children usually do too.

And before you know it, what felt like a big step becomes just another part of your family's rhythm.

With care,

Babysitters' Club Team