What to Do If You Suspect Bad Behavior From Your Babysitter

As a parent, finding a reliable and trustworthy babysitter is crucial. It can be challenging to leave your child(ren) with someone you barely know, but in most cases, everything works out for the best. However, what happens when you suspect that your babysitter may not be the right fit for your family? Whether a gut feeling or an actual issue, these situations can cause parents to feel stressed, anxious, and unsure of how to proceed. This blog post will explore what actions to take if you suspect bad behavior from your babysitter. 

Talk to Your Babysitter

If you have any suspicions about your babysitter’s behavior or actions, the first course of action should be a conversation. However, avoid confrontation and instead approach the conversation with an open mind. Start by asking open-ended questions such as “Is everything okay?” and “How has everything been going?” Listen to their responses and watch for any red flags, like defensive behavior or visible discomfort. Sometimes, bringing up your concerns shows your babysitter that you’re attentive and puts them on their best behavior.

Observe Your Babysitter

Keep an eye out for any odd behavior from your babysitter, especially if you’re home while they’re on duty. Watch for signs of neglect, such as excessive phone use, sleepiness, or not engaging with your child. These may be indicators that your babysitter isn’t doing their job correctly. You should also watch for any inappropriate behavior, like drinking alcohol or bringing unauthorized guests to your home.

Consider Installing a Video Surveillance System

A video surveillance system is a valuable tool that can give you peace of mind when leaving your child with a babysitter. Cameras can be installed throughout your home, including the areas where your sitter often spends time with your child. With remote-access capabilities, you’ll be able to watch the camera feed live or access stored footage at any time. Be aware that some states have laws that can limit the use of video surveillance systems. You will need to review these laws before installing a camera system in your home.

Reach Out to Other Parents

If you hired your babysitter through an agency, reach out to the placement agency for advice. You may also want to connect with other parents who have used the same babysitter. Ask if they’ve noticed anything odd or if they’ve encountered any problems. If you find that other parents have had similar experiences, it may be time to take action.

Hire a New Babysitter

If you’ve gone through the previous steps but do not feel comfortable with your babysitter, consider reaching out to a new one. You do not have to keep a babysitter that you do not trust or are worried about. Hire a new one and start the process over again.

Finding a trustworthy babysitter requires plenty of effort and consideration. But despite your best efforts, it’s not always clear that your babysitter is right for your family, particularly if you suspect bad behavior. If you’re uncomfortable with your babysitter’s actions, have an open conversation, and observe the behavior. Consider installing a video surveillance system to monitor for inappropriate or suspicious activity. Reach out to the placement agency or other parents to compare notes and ultimately, hire a new babysitter if necessary. At the end of the day, trust in your intuition and ensure that your child is receiving the love and care that they deserve.

By Lizzie Weakley

Lizzie is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.