Taking time apart\u00a0from your baby, even just for a few hours,\u00a0can be stressful, especially the first time you do it. Finding the right person, someone you can trust to take good\u00a0care of your child,\u00a0is obviously very important. And so is leaving your caregiver with the vital information they might need while you’re away from home.<\/p>\n
Here are some things to write down on a sheet of paper or a dry erase board that is easily visible for your caregiver.<\/p>\n
Important reminders<\/p>\n
Phone numbers\u00a0\u2013 Provide them with your\u00a0cell phone number, and\u00a0also\u00a0leave the name and number of\u00a0someone else to call in an emergency, just in case you\u00a0can’t be reached immediately.
\nDoctor information\u00a0\u2013 Write down the name and phone number of your child’s doctor.
\nHealth insurance\u00a0\u2013 If for some reason your caregiver needs\u00a0to take your child to the hospital emergency room, you’ll want them to have your\u00a0health insurance information.
\nSpecial needs\u00a0\u2013 Be sure to clearly communicate your\u00a0child’s special health needs, allergies or medicines they might need to take. Leave a list on the refrigerator door of all food allergies. And if your child needs medicine, leave clear\u00a0instructions on how and when to give the dose.
\nFeeding instructions\u00a0\u2013 Tell them how to store and heat your breast milk or formula.<\/p>\n
These are just suggestions. You might have more or other information you want to leave with your caregiver. And it’s a good idea to go over this information together before you leave. This conversation with your caregiver is also an opportunity to discuss your house rules or bedtime routines. Clear, open communication will help you and your caregiver feel more at ease while you’re out and about.<\/p>\n