I love these tips for choosing a babysitter from The Children's Advocacy Center of Collin County and The Container Store!

Choosing a Sitter: Get to know the sitter. Find out how much experience the sitter has. Ask questions that relate to your childs needs. Check the sitters references, talk to other parents who have hired the sitter. If the sitter is a teen, talk to their parents. People often care for children the way they were cared for. Establish a clear understanding for what form of discipline is acceptable. Ask yourself if you are comfortable with this person watching your children, AND if your children are comfortable. Post contact information, emergency phone numbers, medicine rules, bedtimes and other important information next to your telephone. Remind the sitter that they can always call you if they have questions or concerns. Your child's safety and well being is always the first priority! Invite a sitter over for a "get-to-know" session before you leave them alone, pay them the hourly rate, but use this opportunity to establish a relationship.