When you leave children with a baby-sitter, you want to know the sitter is well prepared to deal with any situation that might come up. Assembling information ahead of time will add to your peace of mind and guard against the possibility that you might forget something important in the chaotic dash for the door. Label the list clearly and post it prominently so the sitter can’t miss it, even if you forget to point it out.

WRITE THESE DOWN BEFORE LEAVING THE HOUSE

1. Phone number where you can be reached.

2. Time you expect to return.

3. Itinerary of where you’ll be and when, if appropriate.

4. Phone number of a close neighbor. Call your neighbor first to see if they’ll be home and available if needed.

SHOW SITTER WHERE THESE CAN BE FOUND

1. Cell phone and/or beeper number.

2. Information about security system.

3. House keys.

4. Car keys.

5. Instructions for answering the telephone; pad and pen for taking messages.

6. Pediatrician’s phone number.

7. Poison control center phone number.

8. First aid kit, flashlights, fire extinguisher.

9. Operating instructions for indoor and outdoor lighting.

10. Medication. Include information on dosage and instructions for administering.

11. Allergy list. Include information on medication, if relevant.

12. Cash for incidentals, if necessary.