WOA!!!! Let’s get something straight here, there needs to be a sense of RESPECT here for ALL, even a teenage babysitter and if you don’t have it then just stay home or wait till your parents or siblings are available! Seriously!
These girls have serious points and many of you are not taking them seriously.
!. Having the wife drive them home. We are hocking all over these threads the issues of tznius and right here on this thread a young woman is pointing out how “NOT TZNIUS” it is when a MAN drives home a young woman late at night and many of you have a problem with that????? KUDOS to you whatelseisleft, for making that point as well as other points which the woman of the home should handle.
2. They are making a point that it is “gezeila” if they take food and/or drinks if they are not specifically offered. Appreciate that they know this and understand this and take it seriously. Please be sure to “tell” them to help themselves to drinks and snacks and show them where to find it so they don’t feel like they are snooping in your cabinets and fridge.
3. There needs to be an EMERGENCY List of contact numbers and “What to do ifs” left by a phone. Have it typed and ready and show her where it is. Make sure it has clear instructions.
4. Respect the fact that babysitters have other things going on in their lives and need enough notice, so don’t call at the last minute and make them feel guilty if you are disappointed and do cancel early so they have an opportunity to make other plans or take another job.
5. Don’t think that just because you pay someone they should appreciate YOU. They don’t HAVE to work for you, so you had better appreciate THEM. If you don’t like what they do, don’t hire them. Just know it is not easy to find people YOU can trust with YOUR children.
As far as babysitters are concerned:
1. Do not expect to get a warning phone call that the parents are on their way. Because many times sitters have friends over or are doing things they shouldn’t and if necessary are caught.
2. Respect the home whether you expect the parents to come home at any minute or not. Be prepared that the child might wake up and notice what you are doing as well. If you want to be trusted be trustworthy.
3. If you don’t want to take a last minute job, don’t feel pressured to do so, no matter what they say on the other end. If you say you are busy they can’t argue with you. If you waver and say you really don’t want to they will keep the pressure on until you give in. If you have to study for a test and will only babysit if the kids are asleep make sure you tell them YOU can’t put the kids to sleep this time, it is up to them because if you get a bad mark on the test you won’t be babysitting any more. And only do it for someone you know and trust that they will work with you and put the kids to sleep.
4. If you prefer being driven home by the wife you must make those arrangements beforehand and not ask when they come home because usually women do not want to go out again. So don’t make that a surprise.