The best way to find a good babysitter is through word of mouth. Speak to relatives and friends who have been through the process before and may have some valuable contacts. Otherwise, you might try approaching local day care nurseries, as trainee nursery nurses may welcome the extra income from babysitting.

What qualities should I look for in a babysitter?

However, always check the following qualities:

Basic childcare skills, such as how to change a nappy; feed, play with and comfort a crying baby; or put an older child to bed.

Ask yourself whether they seem mature enough to cope in the event of an emergency. Knowing that they have an understanding of first aid is an added advantage.

Is your babysitter in good health? If they have a heavy cold they are not likely to be up to the demands of the job and may pass the infection on to your children.

What should I ask a babysitter at interview?

You need to satisfy yourself of the following:

The babysitter's previous experience. Particularly relevant is the age of the children looked after and the types of activities engaged in.

How the babysitter usually disciplines children. Do you see eye to eye on this important issue?

It might be helpful to pose some questions about how the babysitter might deal with specific emergencies, such as a fire or your child choking.

Note down their full name, telephone number, address and parents? names.

What do I need to tell the babysitter before I go out?

Take the babysitter on a quick tour of the house and show them where food, tea, coffee and soft drinks are kept. Make sure your leave the following contact information:

Your mobile phone number, if you have one.

The name and address and phone number of the people or place you are visiting and roughly what time you expect to arrive home..

Contact details of a relative or close friend nearby who would be able to help out in an emergency.

The telephone number of your doctor and local hospital.

What can I expect of my babysitter?

Check on your child regularly once he is asleep.

Remain awake and alert until your return.

Lock the door once you have left and not open it to strangers.

Not smoke or drink alcohol while you are out.

Keep phone conversations to a minimum.

What can I do to make things go smoothly?

Carry out a safety check: tidy trailing electrical leads, plug electricity points for young children and make sure your smoke detectors work.

Remember to provide some refreshments for your babysitter.

Try to get home at the time you said you would. If you must be late, call your babysitter and let them know.

When you arrive home, don't forget to ask your babysitter how it went, if there were any problems or if they have any concerns.