Leaving Kiddos for Vacay: 7 Tips for You and Your Sitter

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I've been a nanny/babysitter/big sister for as long as I can remember. For the last decade, I've helped one family several times each year. Sometimes the parents will get away from their kids for business, sometimes it's pleasure and many times it's just to take a well deserved deep breath. This family has taught me many valuable lessons on parenthood. One of which is the importance of taking time away from your kids.  As a parent getting out of the house helps renew your mind and as a married couple it strengthens your marital bond which often gets pushed to the sideline once the heathens kids arrive.
If you currently do not take time away from your children, please let me encourage you... it won't kill you or your kids. In the long-run it will be a very good thing. I think many parents do not take a break from their kids because they do not have anyone they feel they can trust with their children. However, with proper planning your nanny/babysitter/big sister can be a decent substitute in your absence. (I say big sister because for me most of the relationships I've established have turned into such strong bonds, I feel like I'm family).  With that being said, I've compiled a list that has helped me tremendously while playing "mommy". 

1. Find a sitter that you trust.  First and foremost, you have to find a sitter that you trust with your kids. This may take time and you may weed out a lot of sitters by trying them out during your weekly date nights. Stick with it and find a sitter that can respond wisely in difficult situations.
2. Outline your trip information.  Once you've decided to take the plunge and travel away from home whether it be a weekend or an extended trip, make sure you outline the trip itinerary for the sitter. She/He needs to know where you are at all times and if you'll be accessible in case of an emergency.
3. Provide appropriate contact information.  It's important for a sitter to know who to call if there's an issue. By providing the name and number of a friendly neighbor, etc you are giving the sitter resources when/if there is an emergency. If you'll be gone for an extended period of time, include pediatrician,  plumber, etc or the number of anyone that could respond in the event of a maintenance need, etc.
4. For extended trips: Money. If you plan on traveling for an extended period of time, give your sitter some cash to entertain with, buy groceries if necessary etc. Also, if there is an emergency fund, let the sitter (or oldest child if you don't feel comfortable) know when it would be appropriate to use and where it's hidden.
5. For extended trips:  Grant Authorization. While you are traveling, there is a possibility that your child will need to seek medical treatment for minor health issues like sinus infections, flu symptoms etc. By leaving a medical authorization for your sitter to seek medical care on for your child, you are granting access for them to go to the doctor with him/her and obtain necessary medications. Also, remember to leave your insurance cards. Another important authorization is at the school. Make sure your sitter can pick your child up from school with ease. Add them to the pick-up list or place a temporary grant in his/her school file.
6. For extended trips: Food. If you want your child to be comforted and still feel like you are near while you're traveling, freeze meals. This not only helps the sitter with meal prep but also gives your kid the sense that you are close. Nothing says dinner like a meal from mom.
7. For extended trips: Detailed Schedule. No matter the age of the child, a sitter cannot depend on a child to tell them when and where they need to be. Write it out in detail with addresses and contact information and normal start/stop times. Your sitter should be able to maintain daily routines effectively if you provide them with details on your normal schedule.

While this list may seem a little basic, it's important to take a step back and remember many times when trying to get out of town, your head gets cloudy. You are thinking of beaches and drinks with umbrellas and fail to recall the basic logistics of your daily routine. With a little planning,  your child and their sitter can have a wonderful time while you're away! (And guess what... you will too!)