When to use this sheet
Fill out a babysitter information sheet before any sitter, grandparent or friend watches your kids. Keep it on the fridge so the key facts are in one place, especially your home address, which sitters need to give a 911 dispatcher.
Update it whenever something changes, like a new allergy, medication or bedtime.
How to fill it out
| Section | What to include |
|---|---|
| Home address | Your full address, so the sitter can give it in an emergency. |
| Parent contacts | Names and cell numbers. |
| Where we’ll be | The place, a phone number, and when you’ll be back. |
| Backup contact | A nearby relative or neighbor who can help. |
| Emergency numbers | 911, Poison Help (1-800-222-1222), your pediatrician and the nearest hospital. |
| Kids | Each child’s name, age, allergies, medications and bedtime. |
| Meals and snacks | What they can eat, when, and what’s off-limits. |
| Bedtime routine | Bath, books, night-light, comfort items. |
| House rules | Screen time, visitors, outside play and pets. |
| Where things are | First-aid kit, flashlight, fire extinguisher, spare key. |
| Wi-Fi | Network name and password. |
Filled-in example
| Name | Age | Allergies | Medications | Bedtime |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ella | 7 | Peanuts. EpiPen in the kitchen drawer by the fridge. | None | 8:00 PM |
| Noah | 4 | None | None | 7:30 PM |
Bedtime routine: Bath at 7:00, pajamas, brush teeth, two books. Noah needs his stuffed dog and the hall light on.
House rules: 30 minutes of tablet time after dinner. No visitors. Please keep the back gate latched because of the dog.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Forgetting your address. In a panic, sitters often can’t remember it. Put it at the top.
- Assuming the sitter knows about allergies. Spell out what to avoid and what to do, including where emergency medicine is.
- Outdated info. Check the sheet before every sitter visit.
- No backup contact. If you can’t be reached, the sitter needs someone close by.
Frequently asked questions
Should I show the sitter how to use an EpiPen?
Yes. If your child has a prescribed epinephrine auto-injector, walk the sitter through it before you leave, and follow your doctor’s instructions.
What’s the Poison Help number?
In the US, Poison Help is 1-800-222-1222. It connects to your local poison center around the clock.
Should I leave a medical consent form?
For longer stays, many parents leave a signed authorization for the caregiver to get medical treatment for their child. Ask your pediatrician what they accept.
Where should I keep the sheet?
On the fridge or another obvious spot. You can also text a photo of it to the sitter.