I'm nervous about leaving my child?Updated 10 months ago

Leaving your child with a new sitter needn’t be a worry for you or your little one. You wouldn't be the first or last to have felt this when leaving children at a playgroup, nursery or daycare centre. Many parents have these feelings - and then afterwards wonder what they were concerned about!  

Our sitters have chosen to work with children because they enjoy it and you'll find that they are quick to put you and your family at ease. Sitters' parents tell us that their family soon gets to know a small group of sitters from their area. 

Read our 7 top tips for a carefree booking:

1. Firstly, rest assured you don’t have to get your children to sleep before your sitter arrives. All our sitters are experienced childcare professionals and are very happy to read favourite stories and finish off the bedtime routine.
2. Your sitter will get in contact before the booking to introduce themselves and find out more about your family and discuss any requirements you may have, such as routines.
3. Share your sitter’s profile and photo with your little ones to help familiarise them with your sitter ahead of their arrival.
4. For your own peace of mind, arrange for the sitter to arrive half an hour before you’re due to leave to allow plenty of time for a handover without having to rush out the door.
5. All our sitters are a dab hand at putting children at ease quickly. However, it can also be a great idea to ask the kids to think about what they would like to share or do with their sitter, such as a special toy or board game, before they arrive.
6. If your little ones are feeling anxious when you say goodbye, reassure them your sitter will have your phone number and that they’ll be able to get in touch with you should they need to.
7. And finally, relax! Enjoy some time-out knowing your little ones are in the very best hands.