Handing a Child Over to a Babysitter, Grandparent or New Caregiver

Write it down, one short page

A caregiver who has a simple written sheet copes better, and the child's day stays more like normal. Keep it on the fridge or shared on a phone, and update it when routines change.

What to include

• Bedtime: the routine in order (milk or snack, teeth, toileting or night diaper, books, light, door), the usual time, and what morning wake-up looks like.
• Screens and shows: how much is okay and which shows are allowed.
• Toys and play: favorites and where they're kept.
• Meals and snacks: usual times, favorite foods, foods they won't eat, and choking-hazard rules for the child's age.
• Allergies and medical: allergies, daily medicines or vitamins, the pediatrician's name and number.
• Emergency contacts: both parents, a nearby backup adult, and Poison Control (1-800-222-1222 in the U.S.). Say plainly: call 911 first in an emergency.
• Comfort and calming: what helps when the child is upset, comfort objects, nap habits, nearby places they love.
• House rules: screen limits, potty routine, rooms or things that are off-limits.

Before the first solo time

Do a short overlap visit, show where the first-aid kit and the child's records are, and agree on when to text the parents. A caregiver who will be with a baby should know safe sleep basics — baby on their back, alone, in a crib or bassinet with a firm flat mattress and nothing else in it: no pillows, blankets, or bumpers — and be up to date on Tdap and flu vaccines.