babysitting

It can be terrifying to leave the children alone with a babysitter. Anything can happen, but sometimes parents go overboard with their helicopter parenting. It's time mom enjoyed her night out, and left her worries behind. Before heading out for a girls' night out, or a date night, see our list of necessary warnings, so mama can feel safer leaving her kids at home.

5 Things to Warn Your Babysitter About:

1. Ground Rules – Every family has some, especially when it comes to food, bedtime, and behavior. Kids will try to convince their babysitter otherwise, so be sure to make your stance clear.
2. Any Requests – Clearly state your expectations like bathing the kids, tidying up the kitchen after dinner, and not allowing any guests. These seem pretty obvious, but it's always better to communicate your requests rather than assume they will be followed.
3. Special Requirements – Beyond obvious health warnings like food allergies or prescribed medications, many children require certain attention. Let the sitter know what to expect, like if Tommy is still potty training or Susie needs a back rub to fall asleep.
4. Complicated Technology – This includes, but is not limited to, cable boxes, surround sound, microwaves, and security alarms. Provide simple, but detailed instructions so the babysitter does not run into any issues or reprogram your systems.
5. Contagious Illnesses or Changes in Plan – If your child is sick, be sure to call the babysitter to check and see if they are still comfortable babysitting. Your babysitter might resent you and refuse to babysit again if you aren't honest about contagious illnesses to which they will be exposed. Also, as a courtesy, be sure to call if you plan on getting in late.

Keep reading to see what parents should let go.

Are your instincts maternal or technological? If you have a blend of both, there are virtual babies for sale. UBI Soft's Nintendo DS game Imagine Babyz ($23) offers gamers a chance to care for a child for the price of one pack of diapers. Players have to deal with the infants through developmental stages. The product's description boasts these features:

• As a babysitter, take care of up to six babies. Feed them, play with them, take them for walks in the garden, and keep them healthy.
• Spend the money that you have earned on items for the baby like outfits, toys and food, or on new furniture for your house.
• Customize and clean your house with mini-games: vacuum, paint the walls, mow the grass, and more.

Would you use this item to put your motherly skills to the test?