How to use a Hotel Babysitter

Choosing the Right Hotel Babysitter for Your Family

Top Tips for Using a Hotel Babysitter in Perth

Choose Someone You Trust

When selecting a hotel babysitter, try to choose a hotel employee where possible. If you are staying at a large, family-friendly hotel, they should be able to provide details about the babysitter’s experience and how long they have worked there. If you are staying at a private villa or smaller accommodation, you may be able to request someone you have already interacted with during the day. For example, this could be a staff member you feel comfortable with. Because of this, it can help build trust more quickly. You should also ask for a copy of their ID, so you have it on hand if needed.

Make Sure You Can Communicate Clearly

Ask for a babysitter who speaks English, or another language your family speaks. If communication is unclear, misunderstandings are more likely to happen. If you prefer a female babysitter, say this upfront. This avoids confusion and ensures expectations are clear from the start.

Meet the Babysitter Beforehand

If possible, meet the babysitter before you leave. This gives you a chance to ask questions and get a feel for their personality. Trust your instincts, as they can tell you a lot. Children also have strong instincts, so it helps if they meet the babysitter beforehand. This way, they will feel more comfortable and familiar when the babysitter arrives.

Prepare Your Children Before You Leave

Even if the babysitter is experienced, childcare standards can vary. Because of this, it helps to prepare as much as possible before heading out. Get your children fed, bathed, and ready for bed. For younger children, this is especially important. You may also want to book a later dinner, so your children are already settled. This means routines stay consistent and stress is reduced.

Give Clear Instructions

Give clear and simple instructions before you leave. It’s best to assume nothing and explain your expectations in a calm and friendly way. For example, you might say: “Please do not leave the children alone at any time,” or “Please do not allow anyone else into the room.” This helps avoid confusion and ensures everyone understands their role.

Leave Contact Details

Always leave clear contact details in case of an emergency. This should include your mobile number, your location, and the name of the venue you are at. If you are staying in a hotel, you can also inform the front desk. Because of this, they can assist if needed.

Set Up the Space Before You Go

Before leaving, make sure everything the babysitter may need is easy to find. This includes snacks, drinks, milk or bottles, nappies, and comfort items. Because of this, the babysitter can focus on the children without needing to search for things.

Secure Valuables

Remove or secure any valuables before you leave. Use the hotel safe to store important items such as passports and cash. This helps avoid misunderstandings and gives you peace of mind.

Arrive Early and Build Rapport

Ask the babysitter to arrive 15–20 minutes early. This gives you time to speak with them and get comfortable before leaving. You can ask about their experience, background, and how they usually care for children. As a result, you will feel more confident leaving your children with them.

Manage Expectations Around Bedtime

If the babysitter is new to your family, bedtime may not go exactly as planned. Because of this, it’s important to stay realistic. Children may respond differently to someone they don’t know well, so keeping routines simple can help.

Check In While You’re Out

Let the babysitter know you may check in during the evening. This reassures you and also helps maintain accountability. A quick call can give you peace of mind while you’re away.

Still Feeling Unsure?

If you’re not comfortable using a hotel babysitter, you can bring your own. Babysitters on Demand can help organise this, so you have someone you trust while travelling.