Babysitter

... was unavailable. I was finally forced to find my first babysitter. She came highly recommended by friends... they keep lists of people who have taken a babysitter-training course," says Tracy Sawicki, senior director..., okay, this is a job and it's time to check in." It's also crucial that your babysitter know first aid...

Hiring a caregiver? Don't fret--there are some great babysitters out there. Here are 15 pointers to help you find the one who's right for you and your child.

In-home care, in which your child's caretaker comes to your home, is in many ways the most convenient for parents. In-home sitters range from trained nannies, who may have training in child development and first aid, to women who, although not trained formally, have had many years' experience caring for children, including their own. Or you might opt for an au pair, a young person, usually a woman in her early twenties, often from abroad, who lives with your family.

In-home care, in which your child's caretaker comes to your home, is in many ways the most convenient for parents. In-home sitters range from trained nannies to au pairs.

Here are the top no-nos parents don't realize they often make.

When meeting with day care directors or caregivers, don't be afraid to ask as many questions as you need to in order to feel comfortable. It's a good idea to have a written list with you so that you don't forget a key query.

...No one ever said that choosing a babysitter was easy. How can you find someone who can diaper like... young is too young? Safe Kids, a child advocacy organization in Washington, D.C., says a babysitter... should be at least 13 years old. The American Red Cross, however, offers a babysitter training course...

...'t want them to think "anything goes" when the babysitter comes. -- Christine C.; New York, New York Make...

Who better to care for your sweetie? No need to check references, and the price is right! But consider a few things before asking a family member to be your chief babysitter.

Most babies are ready to sleep through the night by 3 to 4 months -- if their parents let them. Learn how these common mom-and-dad errors can turn your baby into a poor sleeper.

How to size up a child-care situation and pick the best one.

Chances are, the dad-to-be in your life falls into one of these five categories. So take a break from obsessing about childcare and strollers to find the dad style that best describes your guy.

All good things must come to an end, and no matter how much your baby loves his binky, bottle, or stroller, at some point you'll have to figure out a way to help him say sayonara, old friend!

... on your fridge so your babysitter has all the info she needs -- in one handy, easy-to-read place...

While young children can reach milestones at different ages, the CDC says you should talk to your doctor and consider an early-intervention evaluation if your child displays any of these signs or has a dramatic loss of skills.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has identified important milestones for babies age 4 months through 7 months. We've included fun and easy ways to help your baby reach these key developmental markers, plus helpful information new parents should know.

Nothing's more fun than food on a stick. We came up with grilled and no-cook skewer combos that even picky eaters will go for.

We gathered advice from real moms (and a dad!) on how they maneuver around their child's meltdowns.

Babies don't really need a lot of gear the first few weeks at home. Despite the temptation to buy all the wonderful baby clothes and gadgets available, a few basics are all you and your baby need.

Parents play a key role in shaping their children's approach to eating. We tell you the mistakes to avoid with your little one.

Your baby's been fed, her diaper is dry, and she seems well rested. So what's with the sudden whimpering? Although her insta-tears may seem baffling, keep in mind that babies always cry for a reason. To help you figure out her crankiness, we've compiled the top things your child may be trying to tell you, along with strategies for bringing back her smile.

Is my child too sick for school or daycare?

Find out the best time to try sleep training with your baby.

When your child can't breathe, every second counts. Here, lifesaving tips you must know.

We put 15 carriers and slings to the test. Check out what our mommy testers had to say, and find the one that's right for your bambino.