Keeping Safe While Babysitting During COVID-19

This week we have launched our Teen Sitters programme, an initiative that connects young people to paid babysitting opportunities in their area. Pre-pandemic, babysitting was one of our core paid tasks available for teens. We’re happy to share that it’s back with a bang!

You may be wondering if childminding is possible in the current climate, or whether it’s safe to go to do so. Here’s all the information you need to know to make sure you keep yourself and others safe and stress-free.

Is Babysitting Allowed?

The official Government Coronavirus (COVID-19) guidance for England states that childcare in the home is permitted. However, please follow the latest guidance, as the situation is constantly evolving.

If you live in Scotland, the official guidance can be found here.

If you live in Wales, the official guidance can be found here.

How Can Young People and Families Keep Safe During a Babysitting Task?

Where possible, all adults should maintain social distancing of two metres. Childminders should wash their hands immediately on arrival (with soap and hot water for 20 seconds) and remove their shoes and coat.

It’s important to maintain a fresh circulation of air in the house, so keep internal doors open. If the weather is good, Sitters should aim to spend most of the time outside to minimise the risk of infection.

Before and after the booking, parents should clean regularly touched objects and surfaces (such as door handles, kitchen items and toys).

Everyone should make sure that if they cough or sneeze, always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands), bin tissues immediately and wash your hands afterwards.

How Should I Travel to a Babysitting Task?

You can find the most up to date travel information dring COVID-19 here.

How Can I Join Teen Sitters on MyPocketSkill?

Everything you need to know about babysitting and pet sitting on MyPocketSkill is set out in our Teen Sitters Guidance for young people and families.