Foster Children and Babysitters – Everything You Need to Know
A common question we are asked is whether it is ok to hire a babysitter. If for any reason, you need a break or you cannot look after a child for a short period of time, it’s logical to consider hiring someone, the same as you would for your own children. However, when it comes to foster children, it may not always be appropriate to leave them with a babysitter.
Here we’ll look at some of the considerations you need to take into account and the steps you should take before hiring a babysitter.
Is it ok to use a babysitter?
Firstly, is it ok to use a babysitter? Ideally, we’d advise against it. If you can avoid using a babysitter, that would be the best option for the child; especially in the case of short-term foster care. However, if you’re a long-term foster carer we do understand there may be occasions where you need a night off.
The first thing you’ll need to do is talk to your social worker. They will be able to advise you on whether the child would be ok in the care of another adult. They will also let you know what steps you need to follow. For example, any babysitter you are thinking of hiring will have to go through a babysitter’s assessment, this involves a small assessment form and a DBS check.
The health and wellbeing of your foster child is really important to us, so always contact your social worker to discuss your childcare options properly.
Why would we discourage babysitters?
Many children who are placed into foster care have come from traumatic or unstable backgrounds, and it can upsetting enough for them to be placed into a strange home with people they do not know. Therefore, being left with a babysitter can be a really scary prospect for some children.
Whatever the situation, our team are on hand to help and support you and your foster child every step of the way.
If you could provide a safe and stable home to a vulnerable child please get in touch today.