We all know that caring for a sick child can be challenging, especially when you're trying to juggle all your other responsibilities. Whether it’s a simple cold or something more serious, it’s crucial to ensure your little one is getting the best care possible. At SmartSitter, we’ve got you covered with our Sick Child Babysitting Services.
Here’s everything you need to know about how we can help, our policies, and some essential tips for managing sick days with your babysitter.
Our Sick Child Services & Tips for Care | SmartSitter
Can a Babysitter Attend If My Child Is Sick?
We understand that caring for a sick child can be stressful, and we aim to provide flexible options for parents in these situations. However, to ensure the safety and comfort of both your child and our babysitters, there are a few criteria that must be met.
Before your babysitter arrives, please review the checklist below to determine whether a sitter can attend, if you need to contact our office, or if the sick child care fee will apply:
✅Basic Illnesses Allowed for Sitter Attendance... A babysitter can attend your appointment if your child is experiencing minor, non-contagious illnesses, including:
Mild cold symptoms (runny nose, mild cough)
Low-grade fever (under 100°F) with no other severe symptoms
Fatigue or body aches
Sore throat without fever
Minor ear infections
Note: If your child exhibits any of the above symptoms, a sick child care fee will apply. Please review our Rates & Fees for the most up-to-date details.
📳Contact the Office if Your Child Has... If your child is showing any of the following, please contact our office before the babysitter arrives to discuss next steps:
Fever over 100°F
Vomiting or diarrhea in the past 24 hours
Suspicion of contagious conditions like pink eye, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, or strep throat
Persistent, severe cough
Any COVID-19 related symptoms (per current CDC guidelines)
🛑Sitter Cannot Attend If... Unfortunately, we cannot send a sitter if your child is experiencing any of the following:
Positive COVID-19 diagnosis or recent exposure
Active flu symptoms (fever, vomiting, severe fatigue)
Highly contagious illnesses (e.g., chickenpox, strep throat, hand-foot-and-mouth disease)
Any other contagious condition that poses a risk to the sitter or other children
ℹ️Additional Notes on Sick Child Fees
SICK CHILD FEE: If your child is mildly sick but still requires care, a sick child fee will apply. This helps ensure that the sitter is prepared and properly compensated for any additional responsibilities related to your child’s condition. Click Here to Review Our Rates & Fees.
The fee is automatically applicable when you indicate the illness within the appointment details during booking, or notify us before the appointment.
CANCELLATIONS DUE TO SICKNESS: If you need to cancel an appointment due to one of the illnesses listed above, normal cancellation rates apply.
In the event of a cancellation due to sickness, as with any appointment cancellation, all scheduling fees remain non-refundable and non-transferrable.
Tips for Managing Sick Days with Your Babysitter
1. Be Clear About the Situation
When you're reaching out to potential sitters, be upfront about your child’s illness. Explain the symptoms and the care they need. This transparency ensures that the sitter knows what to expect and is comfortable with the situation.
2. Check Their Comfort Level
Not all sitters are comfortable caring for a sick child. Make sure to ask if they have any experience with this and if they’re okay with handling the extra responsibilities that come with it.
3. Discuss Medication and Care Instructions
Go over any medications your child needs and provide clear, written instructions. Ensure the sitter knows not to administer any medication without your explicit permission and guidance.
4. Provide Emergency Contact Information
Give the sitter a list of emergency contacts, including your phone number, your partner’s number, and the family doctor’s contact information. Make sure they know what to do and who to call in case of an emergency.
5. Prepare the Home Environment
Set up a comfortable area for your child to rest, with all necessary supplies within easy reach. This includes medications, tissues, blankets, and their favorite comfort items. Ensure the sitter knows where everything is.
6. Emphasize Hygiene
Explain the importance of hygiene to prevent the spread of germs. Provide hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and encourage frequent hand washing. If necessary, have face masks available for both your child and the sitter.
7. Keep Communication Open
Set up a method for regular updates. Whether it’s through text messages, phone calls, or a shared online document, make sure the sitter knows how and when to reach you with any questions or concerns.
8. Offer Plenty of Fluids and Comfort Food
Leave clear instructions about what your child can drink and eat. Stock up on easy-to-prepare, gentle foods and make sure the sitter knows your child’s preferences and dietary restrictions.
9. Give Sick Children Lots of Love
Love and reassurance are powerful tools when caring for a sick child. Show them how much you care by being attentive and patient. Nurturing can help reduce their anxiety and make them feel safe, which can speed up their recovery. Always let them know you are there for them and keep them updated if you need to step away for a moment.
10. Keep Everything Clean to Stop the Spread of Germs
Maintaining cleanliness is one of the best defenses against germs. Regularly wash your hands and the child's hands, disinfect common surfaces, and ensure their toys and bedding are clean. Opening windows for fresh air can also help.
Extra Tips for a Smooth Experience
Leave Written Instructions: Even if you’ve discussed everything, having written instructions can be very helpful. Include details about feeding times, medication schedules, and any other important routines.
Be Accessible: Make sure you’re reachable throughout the day in case the sitter needs to ask questions or provide updates.
Show Appreciation: Taking care of a sick child can be challenging, so make sure to show your babysitter appreciation. A simple thank you or a small gesture can go a long way in making the sitter feel valued.
Hiring a sitter to care for your sick child can be a lifesaver, giving you peace of mind while you manage other responsibilities. With these tips, you can ensure that your child receives the best care possible, even when you can’t be there.
Stay healthy and happy parenting! | For more information on finding the right sitter for your family, visit our website: www.stlsitter.com.
Saint Louis, Missouri | Jacksonville, Florida | Atlanta, Georgia |
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