Parenting In a Pandemic Childcare Babysitters

If you need childcare during the COVID-19 pandemic, you may want to hire an in-home provider to minimize potential exposure to the virus. If you’re interested in a childcare facility, look into the COVID-19 precautions being taken there.

Childcare in Your Home

When bringing a childcare professional or babysitter Into your home, asking about their own COVID-19 precautions can be helpful when considering your family’s potential for exposure to the virus.

Are they fully vaccinated against COVID-19? Do they wear a mask when out in public or around people they do not live with? Are they still attending large gatherings, etc.?

Your own precautions could include requiring the care provider to:

Wear a face mask and wash (or sanitize) hands regularly when around your child and family.
Wear a mask, sanitize hands regularly and socially distance (staying 6 feet apart) from others when out with your toddler. Help your child to do the same.

Childcare Outside of Your Home

Some childcare facilities have been closed during the pandemic. If you’re considering a facility (or family daycare) that is open or has re-opened:

Check out this info on COVID-19 preventive measures to ask about in childcare settings, from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Ask the whether the facility allows parents to visit their child at any time during the day. Centers that allow drop-in visits are always preferable, but this may not be safe during the pandemic. Call ahead so you know the policy before trying to drop in.

Learn more about choosing a childcare program.

More on COVID-19 as it affects:

• Your toddler’s health

• Childcare or babysitters?

• Connecting with friends and relatives

• Traveling with your family

• Celebrating the holidays

• Your mental health and well-being

Disclaimer: This page is not intended to provide medical advice about your child. Always seek the advice of a physician, qualified healthcare provider or child-development specialist with any questions you have about your child's health, medical condition or development. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you read here.