Babysitters in Tucson

Looking for a babysitter, nanny, or au pair in Tucson? You've come to the right place to begin your search!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the going babysitter rate in Tucson?

Babysitting rates vary widely in the Tucson area since there are many factors involved. For example, the rate may vary based on the age and experience of the babysitter, the number of children, the ages of the children, the length of the job, and whether or not other chores are part of the job (feeding/bathing children, cleaning up the kitchen, etc).

That being said, our initial research indicates that starting babysitting rates in our area range between $8 and $15 an hour. Sometimes babysitters charge an extra $2 to $3 on top of their base rate for each additional child.

If babysitting costs are prohibitive for your family, you might want to consider "trading" with another couple in your neighborhood.

What questions should I ask a prospective babysitter?

In order to find a babysitter that is safe for your child and that is a strong fit for your family, it is important to ask good questions before making a hire - whether it is going to be for one night or a recurring job. 

Here are ten questions you may want to ask prospective babysitters:

1. Tell us about your prior childcare experience.
2. What is your education background?
3. What do you enjoy most about working with children?
4. What kind of games and activities do you enjoy doing with children
5. How much "screen time" (movies, apps, games, etc) is typically part of your babysitting jobs?
6. Do you have current certification in CPR/First Aid?
7. Tell us about a time when you had to discipline a child.
8. What three words would your friends use to describe you?
9. Do you have reliable transportation to get you to and from babysitting jobs?
10. What do you think your references will say about you?

It would also be wise to ask for the names of two to three other parents who have used the same babysitter. Call or email to ask if the prospective sitter was on-time, responsible, and kind. Would they choose to hire this sitter again?

What instructions should I give to the babysitter?

Before heading out the door, be sure to equip your babysitter with the information he or she needs to keep your child(ren) healthy, safe, and happy while you are away.

Provide the sitter with your phone number and contact preference (text or call) along with a back-up emergency contact name and number. Tell the sitter when you plan to be home.

Be sure to give a brief tour of your home - outlining areas that are open and/or off-limits. Provide ideas for activities - board games, books, or toys. Show where the bathrooms are. Explain diaper changing procedures (for a baby) and/or bathroom habits of younger children. Give specific instructions regarding snacks and meals. Is your pantry wide open? Do you have precise snack times? Will the sitter need to cook or are there prepped meals in the fridge? Etc.

You will also want to share any house rules. Clear, direct, and friendly communication is best. For example, tell the sitter if she is or isn't allowed to have friends over, talk on the phone, scroll through instagram, turn on the TV, go on a neighborhood walk with the kids, etc.

Who is the best babysitter in Tucson?

Great question! With hundreds of babysitters in Tucson, it’s hard to pinpoint just one. Each babysitter has a unique skill set and personality.

The best way to find a wonderful babysitter in Tucson is to ask friends and family members for recommendations. You might also ask within your local school or church community.