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

> What to write down for a sitter, grandparent or new caregiver.

Stage: family - Topic: For parents - Page: https://www.askcladle.com/guides/parents/caregiver-handoff-sheet

Grounded in: AAP HealthyChildren guidance on choosing and preparing caregivers, and common babysitter-checklist practice. A template for families to fill in; it holds no medical advice of its own.

Reviewed: 2026-10

## TLDR

- Write one short page for any sitter or grandparent: bedtime routine in order, meals, screens, favorite toys and comfort tricks.
- Keep it on the fridge or shared on a phone, and update it when routines change.
- Do a short overlap visit first. Anyone caring for a baby needs safe sleep basics and up-to-date Tdap and flu shots.

## 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.