You’re About to Leave Your Most Precious People With a Stranger—Here’s How to Make Sure They’re Actually Qualified

You’ve scrolled through Care.com profiles. You’ve asked for recommendations in the Evans Moms Facebook group. You’ve got a promising candidate coming over for an interview this Saturday.

But here’s the uncomfortable truth that every Augusta parent faces: Most parents hire babysitters based on gut feeling, vague recommendations, and desperation rather than actual qualifications.

“She seems nice.”
“My neighbor’s friend’s daughter.”
“She said she’s watched kids before.”

And then you leave your home, drive to dinner in downtown Augusta, and spend the entire evening anxiously checking your phone instead of enjoying your date night.

There’s a better way.

This comprehensive interview guide will help Martinez, Evans, and Augusta parents identify truly qualified babysitters—those with actual emergency training, verifiable experience, and the critical thinking skills to keep your children safe when you’re not there.

Plus, we’ll show you exactly what separates amateur sitters from professionally trained caregivers who’ve completed CPR and first aid certification at Pulse CPR School in Martinez.

Why Most Parent Interviews Fail (And How Yours Will Be Different)

The Problem With “Getting a Good Vibe”

Research from child safety organizations reveals a disturbing pattern: Parents spend more time researching which restaurant to try than vetting the person who’ll be alone with their children.

Average time parents spend:

• Researching new restaurants: 15-20 minutes reading reviews
• Choosing a car: Hours comparing features and safety ratings
• Interviewing babysitters: 5-10 minutes asking surface-level questions

Common inadequate interview questions:

• “Do you like kids?” (Who’s going to say no?)
• “Have you babysat before?” (Doesn’t reveal competence)
• “Are you available Friday nights?” (Focuses on convenience, not capability)
• “What are your rates?” (Price-focused, not safety-focused)

What parents SHOULD be asking:

• “Walk me through exactly what you’d do if my toddler started choking.”
• “Show me proper hand placement for infant CPR.”
• “When does a fever become an emergency?”
• “What’s your protocol if you can’t reach me during an emergency?”

The Safety vs. Convenience Trap

Here’s what happens in most Augusta households:

Friday afternoon: “Oh no, we have dinner reservations tomorrow night and our regular sitter cancelled!”

Friday evening: Frantic Facebook post in neighborhood group: “Emergency! Need babysitter for tomorrow night. Anyone available?”

Saturday morning: Someone responds: “My niece is visiting from out of town. She’s 17 and loves kids!”

Saturday evening: Parents meet niece for 5 minutes, desperate to make their reservation, ask “You’ve babysat before, right?” and rush out the door.

What’s missing? Any actual assessment of this person’s:

• Emergency response training
• Medical knowledge
• Problem-solving abilities
• Judgment in crisis situations
• Actual experience with the ages/needs of your children

Desperation leads to dangerous shortcuts.

The solution? Maintain a roster of pre-vetted, trained sitters (preferably CPR-certified through Pulse CPR School) so you’re never forced to hire in panic mode.

Before the Interview: What to Prepare

Create Your Babysitter Job Description

Yes, seriously. Treat this like a real job interview because it IS a real job—the most important one you’ll hire for.

Sample Augusta Babysitter Job Description:

POSITION: Evening Babysitter (Ages 2 and 5)
LOCATION: Evans, GA (near Whole Foods)
SCHEDULE: Friday/Saturday evenings, 6 PM - 11 PM (occasional overnight)
RATE: $15-20/hour depending on experience and certifications

RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Supervise two children (daughter age 5, son age 2)
- Prepare simple dinners and snacks
- Manage bedtime routine (bath, books, bed by 8:30 PM)
- Light tidying (nothing beyond child-related cleanup)
- Emergency response when parents unreachable

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Minimum age 16
- Valid CPR and First Aid certification (American Heart Association preferred)
- Reliable transportation
- 3+ verifiable references
- Clean background check
- Experience with toddlers and preschoolers

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Training from Pulse CPR School or equivalent
- Infant CPR certification
- Previous experience with multiple children
- Ability to handle bedtime resistance and sibling conflicts
- Comfortable with pets (we have a dog)

RED FLAGS (Automatic disqualification):
- No emergency training
- Cannot provide references
- Unwilling to do background check
- Frequent phone use during caregiving
- Unwillingness to follow our household rules

Why this works: Clear expectations eliminate ambiguity and attract serious candidates while filtering out casual sitters.

Prepare Your Interview Packet

Create a folder containing:

1. Welcome letter explaining your family and expectations
2. Emergency contact sheet (you, spouse, neighbors, pediatrician, poison control)
3. Child information forms (allergies, medications, fears, comfort items, bedtime routines)
4. House rules (screen time limits, food restrictions, discipline approaches)
5. Emergency scenario questionnaire (we’ll cover this next)
6. Reference check form (template for calling their previous clients)
7. Trial period agreement (first 3 sits are probationary)

Professional presentation shows: You take childcare seriously, and you expect them to as well.

The Emergency Scenario Questionnaire (Send Before Interview)

Email this to candidates BEFORE they arrive. Their written responses reveal critical thinking abilities:

Augusta Babysitter Emergency Assessment

Please answer these scenarios in detail. There are no trick questions—we want to understand your thought process and training.

Scenario 1: Choking Toddler You’re giving our 2-year-old son a snack. He suddenly stops making noise, his face turns red, and he’s clutching his throat. What do you do? (Describe step-by-step)

Scenario 2: High Fever Our 5-year-old daughter feels very hot. You take her temperature: 103.5°F. She’s lethargic and doesn’t want to drink water. What’s your response?

Scenario 3: Injury Our son falls off the couch and hits his head on the coffee table. There’s a small cut and he’s crying but seems alert. Walk us through your assessment and actions.

Scenario 4: Can’t Reach Parents There’s an emergency and you’ve called us multiple times but we’re not answering (maybe our phones died at the restaurant). What do you do?

Scenario 5: Stranger at Door Someone knocks loudly and rings the doorbell repeatedly while you’re here alone with the kids. You don’t recognize them through the window. How do you handle it?

Scenario 6: Bedtime Resistance It’s 8:30 PM bedtime but our daughter is refusing to go to bed, crying, saying she wants to wait for Mommy and Daddy. How do you manage this?

What good answers look like:

✅ Scenario 1 (Choking): “I would immediately recognize this as severe choking since he can’t cough or make noise. I’d position him properly, deliver 5 back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of my hand, then 5 chest thrusts, alternating until the object dislodges or he becomes unconscious. If unconscious, I’d call 911 immediately and begin CPR. I learned this technique at Pulse CPR School in Martinez during my Infant CPR certification.”

❌ Bad answer: “I’d probably pat his back and call you guys to ask what to do.”

What to Look for in Their Pre-Interview Responses

Green flags:

• Specific, step-by-step thinking
• Mentions formal training (CPR, first aid)
• Prioritizes child safety over convenience
• Shows judgment about when to call 911
• Demonstrates calm problem-solving
• References actual certification (bonus if from Pulse CPR School)

Red flags:

• Vague responses (“I’d figure it out”)
• Panic-focused (“I’d freak out and call you”)
• Overconfident with zero training (“I’d just do CPR, how hard can it be?”)
• Dismissive of emergencies (“That probably won’t happen”)
• No mention of calling 911 when appropriate

The 15 Essential Interview Questions (And What Answers Reveal)

Part 1: Emergency Training & Certifications

Question 1: “Are you currently CPR and First Aid certified? Can I see your certification card?”

Why this matters: This is THE most important qualification. Period.

What you’re looking for:

✅ Ideal answer: “Yes! I’m certified through the American Heart Association. I took my Heartsaver CPR/AED and First Aid course at Pulse CPR School in Martinez six months ago. Here’s my card—it’s valid until [date]. I also have infant CPR certification since I primarily work with younger children.”

[They hand you a physical American Heart Association card with their name, photo, certification number, issue date, and expiration date]

✅ Acceptable answer: “Yes, I’m certified through the American Red Cross. My certification expires next April. I don’t have the physical card with me but I can email you a photo of it today.”

⚠️ Concerning answer: “I took CPR in health class sophomore year.” (This was likely basic overview, not hands-on certification)

⚠️ Concerning answer: “I have an online certificate I got for $20.” (Online-only courses without in-person skills testing aren’t recognized by most employers)

❌ Unacceptable answer: “No, but I’ve watched YouTube videos on it.” (HARD PASS)

❌ Unacceptable answer: “I don’t think I need it—I’m careful with kids.” (Demonstrates dangerous lack of understanding)

How to verify legitimate certification:

1. Ask to photograph the card (you’ll check it matches their ID)
2. Look for these elements:
   • American Heart Association or American Red Cross logo
   • Holographic or security features
   • Certification number
   • Issue and expiration dates
   • Training center name (Pulse CPR School, etc.)
3. Check expiration date (if expired, they need renewal before they can work for you)
4. Google the training center if you’re unfamiliar with it

For teens without certification: If you really like a candidate but they’re not yet certified, you can offer: “I’m willing to hire you AFTER you complete CPR certification. Pulse CPR School in Martinez offers affordable Heartsaver courses for $59, and you’d get certified the same day. I’d be happy to recommend you to other families once you’re trained. Would you be interested?”

This approach:

• Shows you’re serious about safety standards
• Gives the teen clear path to employment
• Often motivates them to get trained (they want the job!)
• Benefits your entire neighborhood (another trained caregiver)

Question 2: “Walk me through exactly what you’d do if my child started choking—step by step, as if I’m not here and you’re alone with them.”

Why this matters: Choking is one of the leading causes of injury and death in young children. This scenario tests whether they have actual hands-on training or just theoretical knowledge.

What you’re looking for:

✅ Excellent answer (demonstrates real training):

“First, I’d assess whether it’s mild or severe choking. If your child can cough, make sounds, or breathe at all, I’d encourage them to keep coughing while staying close. But if they can’t make any noise, can’t cough, and are showing the universal choking sign with hands at their throat, that’s severe obstruction and I need to act immediately.

For your 5-year-old, I’d stand behind her, make a fist with one hand and place it slightly above her navel, grab it with my other hand, and deliver quick upward abdominal thrusts—what people call the Heimlich maneuver. I’d do up to 5 thrusts, check if the object came out, and repeat if needed.

For your 2-year-old, it’s different because he’s smaller. I’d position him face-down along my forearm, supporting his jaw, and deliver 5 firm back blows between his shoulder blades with the heel of my hand. Then I’d flip him face-up and do 5 chest thrusts with two fingers in the center of his chest. I’d alternate back blows and chest thrusts until the object comes out.

If either child became unconscious, I’d immediately call 911, lower them to the floor, and start CPR—even if I didn’t see what they were choking on, because CPR chest compressions can help dislodge objects.

I learned all this at Pulse CPR School and practiced on infant and child manikins, so I feel confident I could do it correctly in a real emergency.”

Why this is perfect:

• Age-appropriate techniques (different for toddler vs. 5-year-old)
• Specific positioning and hand placement
• Knows when to call 911
• Mentions actual hands-on practice
• Demonstrates confidence without cockiness

⚠️ Mediocre answer: “I’d do the Heimlich maneuver and call 911.”

Why it’s inadequate:

• Too vague (no specific technique description)
• Doesn’t differentiate between ages
• Unclear whether they’d call 911 immediately or after attempting intervention

❌ Terrible answer: “I’d probably stick my finger in their mouth and try to pull it out.”

Why this is dangerous:

• WRONG technique that can push obstruction deeper
• No formal training evident
• Could make situation worse

Follow-up question if they mention CPR: “Can you show me on this couch cushion where you’d place your hands for infant CPR versus child CPR?”

Watch whether they:

• Know infant CPR uses 2 fingers vs. child CPR uses 1-2 hands
• Can identify center of chest correctly
• Know approximate compression depth (infant: 1.5 inches, child: 2 inches)
• Mention compression rate (100-120 per minute)

Question 3: “When would you call 911 versus calling us first versus handling something yourself?”

Why this matters: Good judgment about emergency escalation is critical. You need someone who won’t panic over minor issues but also won’t delay calling for help when it’s truly needed.

What you’re looking for:

✅ Excellent answer showing good judgment:

“I’d call 911 immediately for:

• Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness
• Difficulty breathing or choking that I can’t relieve
• Severe bleeding that won’t stop with pressure
• Suspected broken bones or head injuries with concerning symptoms
• Seizures
• Severe allergic reactions
• Any situation where I think we need paramedics NOW

I’d call you first for:

• Moderate fever that concerns me (like 102-103°F)
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Minor injuries that need your input
• Behavioral issues I can’t manage
• Questions about medications or dosing
• Basically anything that needs parental decision-making but isn’t immediately life-threatening

I’d handle myself:

• Minor cuts and scrapes (basic first aid)
• Low-grade fevers under 101°F (monitoring, fluids)
• Typical tantrums or bedtime resistance
• Regular routines you’ve outlined
• Small behavioral redirections

But here’s my rule: When in doubt, I err on the side of calling someone. I’d rather have you tell me ‘It’s fine, you handled it right’ than delay and regret it. And if I call 911, I’m calling you immediately after so you can meet us at the hospital.”

Why this is excellent:

• Clear categorization of emergency levels
• Specific examples in each category
• Shows independence for routine matters
• Demonstrates appropriate use of resources
• “Err on the side of caution” philosophy

⚠️ Concerning answer: “I’d probably always call you first to see what you want me to do.”

Why it’s problematic:

• Shows lack of confidence in own judgment
• Could delay critical care waiting for you to answer
• You don’t want to field calls about minor normal kid stuff
• Suggests they need hand-holding

❌ Unacceptable answer: “I’m pretty good with kids so I’d probably just handle whatever comes up.”

Why this is dangerous:

• Overconfident
• Doesn’t understand when professional help is needed
• Could delay calling 911 in serious situation

Part 2: Experience & Capabilities

Question 4: “Tell me about your most challenging babysitting situation and how you handled it.”

Why this matters: Past behavior predicts future behavior. This reveals problem-solving skills, stress management, and whether they’ve actually dealt with difficult situations.

What you’re looking for:

✅ Strong answer: “I was watching a 4-year-old and 18-month-old, and about an hour after the parents left, the 4-year-old threw up all over her bed and started crying. The baby woke up from the noise and was screaming. I needed to comfort both kids, clean up the mess, and assess whether this was something serious.

First, I got the 4-year-old out of her bed and into the bathroom, calmed her down, and took her temperature—it was 99.8°F, so not high. I called the parents to let them know what happened and ask if she’d been sick earlier. They said she’d eaten a lot of candy at a birthday party that afternoon, so probably just an upset stomach, not illness.

While on the phone, I had the baby in a bouncer where I could see him. After the call, I got the 4-year-old into clean pajamas, gave her small sips of water, and set her up on the couch with a bucket nearby and a movie. Then I quickly stripped her bed and started a load of laundry.

The baby calmed down once his sister was settled. I kept monitoring the girl—she didn’t throw up again and was feeling better within an hour. I texted the parents updates every 20 minutes so they knew how she was doing.

It was stressful managing both kids while dealing with vomit, but I just took it one step at a time and stayed calm. The parents really appreciated how I handled it and gave me a big tip.”

Why this is excellent:

• Real, challenging situation (not generic)
• Logical prioritization (assess, stabilize, communicate)
• Called parents appropriately (not an emergency, but they needed to know)
• Managed multiple children simultaneously
• Stayed calm under pressure
• Followed up with parents
• Learned from experience

⚠️ Weak answer: “Nothing really challenging has happened. Kids usually just play and go to bed.”

Why it’s concerning:

• Either minimal experience OR doesn’t recognize challenges
• May not have dealt with anything beyond ideal scenarios
• Might struggle when the inevitable difficulty arises

Question 5: “What’s your experience specifically with children ages [your kids’ ages]?”

Why this matters: A teen who’s great with 8-year-olds might be overwhelmed by toddlers. An experienced nanny who specializes in infants might struggle with active preschoolers. Age-specific experience matters.

What you’re looking for:

✅ Ideal answer for parents with toddler and preschooler: “I’ve worked with toddlers and preschoolers a lot. I regularly babysit for three families—one has twins who are 2 years old, another has a 3-year-old, and the third has a 4-year-old and 6-year-old. I’m comfortable with diaper changes, potty training, tantrums, picky eating, and the high energy level.

I also completed the Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid CPR AED course at Pulse CPR which focused specifically on emergencies with young children. I know toddlers put everything in their mouths, so I’m really careful about choking hazards. I’m also comfortable with the need for constant supervision—I know you can’t take your eyes off them for a second.”

Why this works:

• Specific ages match your children
• Mentions multiple families (regular work)
• Lists age-appropriate skills
• Understands developmental needs (constant supervision for toddlers)
• Specialized training for this age group

⚠️ Acceptable but less ideal: “I mostly babysit my 10-year-old brother, but I’ve watched younger kids a few times. I’m a fast learner and really want more experience with toddlers.”

Why it’s acceptable:

• Honest about experience level
• Shows enthusiasm and willingness to learn
• Might be great with proper training and trial period

Your response: “I appreciate your honesty. I’d want to start with you coming over while I’m home for a few practice sessions before leaving you alone with them. Also, I’d strongly recommend getting CPR certified—especially infant and child CPR. Pulse CPR School in Martinez offers courses specifically for babysitters and childcare providers.”

Question 6: “How would you handle [specific challenging behavior your child exhibits]?”

Insert your own child’s actual challenges:

• “My son has epic bedtime meltdowns and will scream for 30 minutes”
• “My daughter is going through a hitting phase”
• “My toddler is a runner—he’ll bolt if you’re not holding his hand”
• “My preschooler tests boundaries constantly”

What you’re looking for:

✅ Good answer (for bedtime meltdowns example): “I’d follow whatever bedtime routine you’ve established exactly—consistency is really important for kids. If he starts melting down, I’d stay calm and use a quiet, gentle voice. I might validate his feelings: ‘I know you’re sad Mommy and Daddy aren’t here, and bedtime is hard.’

I’d stick to the boundary though—it’s still bedtime. I might offer a choice: ‘Do you want to pick one book or two books before lights out?’ Giving some control sometimes helps.

If the tantrum continues, I’d stay nearby but not give lots of attention to the crying itself. I’d wait for a pause and then reengage positively. Once he’s calmer, I’d offer comfort.

I wouldn’t negotiate bedtime or give in just to stop the crying, because I know that teaches kids that tantrums work. What specific approach do you usually use? I want to make sure I’m consistent with what you do.”

Why this is strong:

• Asks about YOUR approach (wants to maintain consistency)
• Understands child development (validation, choices)
• Sets boundaries firmly but kindly
• Won’t be manipulated by tantrum
• Stays calm under pressure

Part 3: Practical Logistics & Reliability

Question 7: “What’s your availability, and how much notice do you typically need?”

Why this matters: Mismatched expectations about scheduling cause most babysitter-parent frustrations.

What you’re looking for:

✅ Clear, realistic availability: “I’m generally available Friday and Saturday evenings, and some weeknights with advance notice. During the school year, I need at least 3-4 days notice so I can plan around homework and my own activities. During summer, I’m more flexible and can often do same-day if needed.

I keep a calendar of my commitments and update it regularly. If you have recurring needs—like every other Friday—I can block those out in advance so you know I’m yours.”

Why this works:

• Specific days/times
• Realistic notice requirements
• Acknowledges school obligations
• Offers solutions for regular scheduling
• Organized approach

❌ Problematic answer: “I’m pretty flexible, just text me whenever.”

Why it’s concerning:

• Too vague
• No actual commitment
• “Just text me” suggests disorganized approach
• Likely to cancel last minute

Question 8: “What’s your cancellation policy? What happens if you need to cancel on me?”

Why this matters: Last-minute cancellations destroy parents’ plans. You need someone reliable with a backup plan.

What you’re looking for:

✅ Responsible answer: “I take my commitments really seriously. If I agree to babysit, you can count on me being there. That said, I know emergencies happen.

If I’m sick, I’d let you know as soon as possible—definitely the morning of, not an hour before. If it’s something like a family emergency, obviously I’d tell you immediately.

I also have a friend who’s also CPR certified [from Pulse CPR School] who could substitute for me in an emergency if you were comfortable with that and wanted to meet her first. We back each other up.

I don’t cancel for things like ‘something better came up’ or because I’m tired. When I commit, I’m there.”

Why this is excellent:

• Takes reliability seriously
• Realistic about emergencies
• Has backup plan
• Distinguishes between emergency and convenience
• Backup is also trained (smart!)

⚠️ Concerning answer: “I mean, I’ll try my best to be there, but you know, things come up sometimes.”

Translation: They’ll cancel semi-regularly and leave you scrambling.

Question 9: “Do you have reliable transportation? What happens if your car breaks down or your ride falls through?”

Why this matters: If they can’t get to your house, they can’t babysit.

What you’re looking for:

✅ Solid logistics: “I have my own car and a clean driving record. If my car had issues, my mom could drop me off and pick me up—she’s really reliable. I’d let you know in advance if I was getting dropped off so you’d know to expect two people arriving.”

OR

“My parents drop me off since I don’t drive yet. They’re very punctual and would never leave me stranded. They’ve also said if there was ever an issue, they’d figure out the transportation—maybe my sister could bring me instead.”

Part 4: House Rules & Philosophy

Question 10: “What’s your phone policy while babysitting?”

Why this matters: Constant phone scrolling is the #1 parent complaint about young babysitters.

What you’re looking for:

✅ Mature, appropriate boundaries: “My phone stays in my bag unless I need to text you, check the time, or there’s an emergency. I’m here to watch your kids, not be on social media. If my friends text me, they can wait.

The only exception would be if you need me to send you photos or updates, which I’m happy to do if you want them. Otherwise, phone away, full attention on the kids.”

Why parents love this:

• Proactive about limiting phone use
• Understands the priority
• Offers to communicate with parents appropriately
• Shows maturity

❌ Red flag answer: “I mean, I’ll have my phone, but I can multitask.”

Translation: They’ll be scrolling Instagram while your toddler colors on the wall.

Your response: “Actually, I need you fully present with the kids. Phone use is limited to communicating with me only. Is that something you’re comfortable with?”

If they hesitate or push back, that’s your answer—find someone else.

Question 11: “What are your feelings about discipline and how would you handle misbehavior?”

Why this matters: Your discipline philosophy might clash with theirs. Better to know upfront.

What you’re looking for:

✅ Thoughtful, aligned with modern parenting: “I believe in staying calm and being consistent. I’d follow whatever discipline approach you use at home so the kids don’t get confused by different rules.

If they’re misbehaving, I’d first try redirecting them to something appropriate. If it continues, I’d give a calm warning with a clear consequence: ‘If you throw toys again, we’ll need to put them away for the rest of the evening.’

I don’t believe in yelling, shaming, or physical punishment—those aren’t effective and they damage trust. I’m firm but kind. What specific discipline strategies do you use? I want to make sure I’m reinforcing what you do at home.”

Why this is excellent:

• Asks about YOUR approach
• Modern, gentle but firm philosophy
• Clear about what they won’t do
• Calm and consistent
• Respects your parenting style

⚠️ Concerning answer: “I’m pretty strict. Kids need to know who’s boss.”

Why it’s concerning:

• Authoritarian approach might not match your style
• “Who’s boss” suggests power struggles
• May be too harsh

❌ Unacceptable answer: “I’d probably give them a smack if they weren’t listening.”

HARD NO. End interview immediately.

Part 5: Emergency Preparedness (The Deal-Breakers)

Question 12: “If my child needed the EpiPen for an allergic reaction, would you be comfortable administering it?”

Note: Only relevant if your child has severe allergies

Why this matters: Allergic reactions are life-or-death emergencies that require immediate action.

What you’re looking for:

✅ Confident and trained: “Yes, absolutely. I learned how to use an EpiPen in my first aid training at Pulse CPR School. I’d recognize the signs of anaphylaxis—difficulty breathing, swelling, hives, vomiting—and I’d use the EpiPen immediately on the outer thigh, hold it for 10 seconds, then call 911 right away.

I know you always need to call 911 after using an EpiPen even if symptoms improve, because there can be a second wave reaction. I’d stay with your child and keep monitoring them until paramedics arrived. Can you show me where you keep the EpiPen and review your specific emergency plan?”

Why this is perfect:

• Knows symptoms
• Knows how to use EpiPen
• Knows to call 911 after using it
• Asks for your specific protocol
• Takes it seriously

❌ Unacceptable answer: “I’ve never used one but I guess I’d figure it out if I had to.”

This is disqualifying. If your child has life-threatening allergies, you need someone specifically trained. Offer to hire them AFTER they complete proper first aid training.

Question 13: “What would you do if there was a fire/tornado/severe weather while you’re here with my kids?”

Why this matters: Natural disasters and home emergencies require clear thinking under extreme stress.

What you’re looking for:

✅ Prepared and thoughtful: “For a fire, I’d get the kids out of the house immediately—nothing else matters, just get out. I wouldn’t try to put it out or grab belongings. I’d take them to [wherever your family meeting spot is] or a neighbor’s house and call 911 from there.

For a tornado, I’d get the kids to the lowest level of your house, away from windows—like your basement or interior bathroom. I’d bring my phone to call you and get updates. We’d stay there until the warning passed.

For severe weather that’s not tornado-level, I’d bring the kids inside, close windows and curtains, and monitor weather alerts on my phone. I’d keep them calm and distracted with books or movies away from windows.

Where’s your family safe spot for weather emergencies? And where’s your fire extinguisher and emergency kit, just so I know?”

Why this is excellent:

• Age-appropriate actions for each scenario
• Prioritizes child safety over property
• Knows to call 911
• Asks about YOUR specific plans
• Wants to know where safety equipment is

Question 14: “Have you ever had to deal with a real emergency while babysitting? If so, what happened?”

Why this matters: Real-world experience reveals how they function under actual pressure, not just theoretical pressure.

What you’re looking for:

✅ If they HAVE dealt with emergency: Listen for:

• Staying calm
• Following their training
• Appropriate escalation (calling 911 when needed)
• Communicating with parents
• Learning from the experience

✅ If they HAVEN’T dealt with emergency (common for younger/newer sitters): “No, thankfully I haven’t had a real emergency yet. But that’s exactly why I got CPR certified at Pulse CPR School in Martinez—I wanted to be prepared in case something does happen. I practiced on manikins over and over until I felt confident. I hope I never need to use it, but I know I could if I had to.”

Why this is good:

• Honest about lack of experience
• Proactively got trained anyway
• Hands-on practice mentioned
• Realistic confidence

Question 15: “What questions do you have for me?”

Why this matters: Good babysitters will have thoughtful questions about your children, your expectations, and emergency procedures. No questions suggests lack of engagement or experience.

Green flag questions they might ask:

✅ “What are each child’s favorite comfort items or strategies when they’re upset?”

✅ “Do you have any specific house rules you want me to enforce?”