June 2007

Tip sheet, fridge magnet to help parents choose babysitters

A new child-safe resource package will help parents choose a babysitter.

The resource package was developed by Victoria’s Child Safety Commissioner Bernie Geary in response to recommendations from the State Coroner to provide information guiding parents in their selection of an occasional carer or babysitter.

Minister for Children Lisa Neville and Minister for Community Services Gavin Jennings launched the new resource package.

It includes: 

•             Proper Care When You’re Not There—a one-page tip-sheet that includes warning signs for parents to consider before leaving their children in the care of a babysitter;

•             What the babysitter needs to know—a fridge magnet and note pad designed for parents to share important information about their children with the babysitter.          

‘Sometimes parents make babysitting decisions ‘on the run’ and often under pressure,’ Ms Neville said.

‘These new resources will assist parents stop, think and act in a more considered way.’

‘I know, from my own experience, that choosing a babysitter is a tough decision because you want to be sure that your child will be safe.’

Mr Jennings said parents faced challenges finding suitable babysitters.

‘Trusted friends and family are not always available to support and assist parents in caring for their children.

‘This resource is designed to help parents who are in that situation.

‘While we find babysitters in many places—friends, neighbours, relatives or agency staff—we all need to remember we can never afford to compromise on our children’s safety, particularly when we are away from them.’

Mr Geary said as a father he recognised the sort of pressure many parents experienced finding someone suitable to babysit.

He said he was keen to emphasise that ‘even a couple of minutes of serious consideration could make all the difference in the world to their child’s safety.’ 

Child-safe resource packages will be distributed free to family support services, counselling and support services, community health centres and regional Child Protection Services based in the Department of Human Services.

•             Copies of the resource kits can be ordered online from the Office of the Child Safety Commissioner at www.ocsc.vic.gov.au.