Terminating a Full Time Babysitter

A full time babysitter is a big part of a family's life. Terminating this relationship is not something that should be taken lightly. However, there are some issues that are deal breakers, and are grounds for termination. Failing to dismiss an unfit full time sitter is equal to abusing your family. If any of the following occur, action should be considered:

• The sitter strikes your child.
• The sitter leaves your child/children alone for any reason, for any length of time.
• The sitter demeans your child, or calls him or her names.
• Vulgarity. Verbal or otherwise.
• Your child makes an accusation that the sitter has touched him or said inappropriate things.
• The full time babysitter is caught stealing or lying.
• The sitter is constantly allowing your children to break your household rules without consequence.

If the relationship is terminated, you must address the issue directly with your children. Listen to their fears, hurt and anger. If your children have serious difficulty accepting the change after two or three weeks, seek the assistance of a counselor. This is an issue that should not be ignored.