Complete Sitter Instructions for a Safe & Smooth Evening

Parent(s) or Pet Owner(s) Full Name(s)

Primary mobile number while out

Secondary mobile number (if applicable)

Expected sitter arrival time

Estimated return time

Backup contact person who will be available tonight

Will you be at a location with unreliable cell reception?

Venue name and any available landline number

Is there a possibility you may return later than the estimated time?

Latest possible return time

Type of care required tonight

Number of children requiring care

Children Details & Profiles

Number of pets requiring care

Pets Details & Care Profiles

Primary Emergency Contact - Full Name

Primary Contact - Relationship to Family

Primary Contact - Primary Phone Number

Primary Contact - Secondary/Work Phone

Secondary Emergency Contact - Full Name

Secondary Contact - Relationship

Secondary Contact - Phone Number

Family Doctor/Pediatrician Full Name

Doctor's Emergency/After-Hours Contact Number

Preferred Hospital/Clinic Name

Hospital/Clinic Address & Directions from your home

Veterinarian Name & Clinic (if pets are being cared for)

Veterinary Emergency Hospital Number

Local Emergency Services Number (Police/Fire/Ambulance)

Poison Control Center Emergency Number

Home Security Company Name & Emergency Dispatch Number

Specific Emergency Protocols (e.g., lockdown procedures, medical action plans)

Does anyone being cared for have known allergies (food, environmental, medication, pet)?

⚠️ ALLERGY DETAILS: List each person/pet, specific allergens, severity (mild/moderate/severe/anaphylactic), and EXACT emergency response required. Include location of medications.

Are there any prescription or over-the-counter medications that MUST be administered tonight?

Medication Administration Log

Medical Conditions, Disabilities, or Special Needs the Sitter Must Be Aware Of

Emergency Action Plan for Critical Conditions (seizures, allergic reactions, asthma attacks, etc.)

Location of First Aid Kit

Location of Emergency Medications (EpiPens, inhalers, rescue meds)

Are there any recent illnesses, injuries, or health concerns?

Describe symptoms, care needed, and when to be concerned

Tonight's Routine Flow

Is there flexibility in this routine if things don't go as planned?

Explain what can be adjusted and what elements are NON-NEGOTIABLE

Should the sitter maintain a log of activities, moods, or incidents?

What specific details should be logged and where to leave the notes

Which areas of the home are STRICTLY OFF-LIMITS tonight? (Select all that apply)

Detailed access rules: cabinets, closets, or rooms that require permission

Do you have a security alarm system that must be managed?

Provide alarm code, arming/disarming sequence, password for calling security company, and what to do if it accidentally triggers

Emergency exit routes, fire safety meeting point, and emergency procedures

Are there any safety hazards the sitter should be extra cautious about?

Describe hazards (e.g., steep stairs, pool, aggressive pet in neighbor's yard) and safety precautions

Can the sitter use kitchen appliances (oven, stove, microwave, dishwasher)?

Specify which appliances are approved and any safety instructions

Wi-Fi Network Name & Password (for emergency use)

SPECIFIC Comfort Items That MUST Be Available (describe exact item, location, and why it's critical)

Does anyone have specific bedtime fears, separation anxiety, or emotional triggers?

Describe fears/triggers and proven calming strategies that work

Are there any behavioral challenges or discipline approaches we use?

Explain our discipline philosophy, what works, what to avoid, and when to call us

Most effective soothing techniques when upset or crying (include specific songs, phrases, or actions)

Is it acceptable to take photos or videos to share moments during the evening?

Specify what is acceptable to photograph and how to share (e.g., via text, not social media)

Has dinner already been served before sitter arrival?

DINNER INSTRUCTIONS: What to serve, how to prepare, portion sizes, where to find food, and any mealtime rules

Approved snack options, portion limits, timing, and where to find them

Are there any choking hazards, forbidden foods, or severe allergy risks?

⚠️ CRITICAL FOOD RESTRICTIONS: List forbidden foods, why they're dangerous, and what to do if accidentally ingested

Do infants need bottle preparation or specific feeding equipment?

Bottle prep: formula mixing ratios, water temperature, sterilization, storage, and feeding schedule

PET FEEDING: Food type, exact amount, location, feeding times, and special requirements

Food-related behavioral notes (e.g., picky eating, food guarding in pets, mealtime tantrums)

Screen time policy for tonight

Specific screen time rules: approved shows/apps, time limits, cutoff times, and devices allowed

Approved activities and toys for tonight (select all that apply)

Homework assignments, reading requirements, or educational activities that must be completed

Pet exercise, play, and enrichment instructions (walk routes, favorite toys, duration)

Activities to AVOID or that are off-limits tonight

Thermostat settings and temperature adjustments (e.g., keep at 72°F, don't adjust below 70°F)

Tricky light switches, lamps, or lighting preferences for evening routine

Are there any complex devices (TV, sound system, smart home devices) the sitter may need to operate?

Device instructions: remotes, apps, settings, and troubleshooting tips

White noise machine, nightlight, or other comfort device locations and exact settings

Additional light household tasks (if time permits and children/pets are settled)

Are you expecting any visitors, deliveries, or service providers tonight?

Visitor details: name, expected time, purpose, whether to allow entry, and any verification required

Total sitter payment amount for tonight

Payment method and location (cash, digital transfer, app, etc.)

Should the sitter answer the house phone if it rings?

What message to take or how to screen calls

Is there a spare key available if you are delayed or in case of emergency?

Key location and any instructions

Any other special instructions, requests, or important information not covered elsewhere

Actual departure time (sitter to complete)

Evening summary: What went well, any challenges, notable behaviors, or incidents

Did any emergencies or concerns arise that require immediate parent notification?

URGENT: Describe what happened and actions taken

Please rate how each child/pet handled different aspects of the routine

I have read, understood, and will follow all instructions to the best of my ability

Sitter signature acknowledging receipt and understanding of all instructions

Sitter arrival time confirmation (to be filled upon arrival)