Family hiring guide
Every sitter here has passed ID and background checks. Use these questions and checklists during your interview or video call to find the right fit for your family.
Top 5 things to look for
1. Child safety & emergency readiness
Example: Current CPR/First Aid for infants and children; can explain what they'd do if a toddler is choking.
2. Age-appropriate experience
Example: Has cared for newborns if you have an infant, or managed homework and activities for school-age kids.
3. Discipline & parenting fit
Example: Uses redirection and calm limits that match your approach, never yelling or physical punishment.
4. Reliability & communication
Example: Arrives on time, sends a quick update and photo during the day, tells you about problems right away.
5. Strong references
Example: Two families who'd hire them again and can describe a specific situation they handled well.
Interview questions
- What ages have you cared for, and which age do you enjoy most?
- Walk me through a typical day with a child my child's age.
- How do you handle a tantrum or a child who won't listen?
- What would you do if my child had a fever, fall or allergic reaction?
- How do you handle screen time, snacks and naps?
- Are you comfortable with car seats, driving, or walking to school?
- How do you keep parents updated during the day?
- Tell me about a hard situation with a child and how you handled it.
Top 5 things to look for
1. Animal handling experience
Example: Has walked large, leash-reactive dogs or given cats medication before.
2. Health & medication care
Example: Comfortable giving pills or insulin, and spots signs of illness like not eating or vomiting.
3. Emergency plan
Example: Knows your vet and the nearest 24-hour animal hospital, and what to do if a pet escapes.
4. Routine & updates
Example: Follows feeding amounts and walk times exactly, and sends photo updates each visit.
5. Home respect & security
Example: Locks doors, keeps gates closed, and keeps pets apart if they shouldn't be together.
Interview questions
- What kinds and sizes of animals have you cared for?
- Have you given medications or cared for an older or special-needs pet?
- What would you do if my pet got sick, hurt or ran away?
- How do you handle a dog that pulls, barks or doesn't get along with other dogs?
- How long are your visits, and what happens during each one?
- Will you meet my pet before the first booking?
- How will you update me while I'm away?
Top 5 things to look for
1. Trustworthiness
Example: ID and background check cleared, with references from people whose homes they've watched.
2. Security habits
Example: Locks up every time, varies lights, brings in mail and packages so the home looks lived in.
3. Problem-solving
Example: Knows where your water shut-off is and who to call if a pipe leaks or the power goes out.
4. Clear house rules
Example: Agrees in writing on guests, parking, smoking, and which rooms are off limits.
5. Communication
Example: Sends a daily check-in and tells you right away about anything unusual.
Interview questions
- Have you house sat before? Can I speak with those homeowners?
- What do you do each day to keep a home secure?
- What would you do if there were a leak, power outage or break-in?
- Are you comfortable with plants, pools, trash day or other chores?
- Will you have any guests, and will you stay overnight every night?
- How will you check in while I'm away?
Top 5 things to look for
1. Relevant care experience
Example: Has supported people with memory loss, limited mobility, or recovery after a hospital stay.
2. Safety & mobility skills
Example: Knows safe transfers from bed to chair and how to prevent falls in the bathroom.
3. Patience & dignity
Example: Lets your loved one make choices, speaks to them directly, and stays calm when they're confused.
4. Health awareness
Example: Gives medication reminders on schedule and notices changes like new confusion or not drinking.
5. Communication with family
Example: Keeps a simple daily log of meals, mood and activities, and calls you about concerns.
Interview questions
- What experience do you have with older adults, including memory loss or dementia?
- How do you help someone move safely or prevent falls?
- How do you handle medication reminders?
- What would you do if my parent fell, seemed confused, or refused care?
- How do you keep someone engaged and comfortable during the day?
- Are you comfortable with meals, light housekeeping, or driving to appointments?
- How will you keep our family informed?
Ready to start? Browse sitters or see Family plans.