Parent FAQs
General Questions
What is NorthStar Sitters?
NorthStar Sitters is a babysitter referral service that connects families with trusted, reliable, and experienced childcare providers for occasional, recurring, and special-event childcare needs.
How does NorthStar Sitters work?
Simply submit a childcare request through our website. We review your needs and match you with an available sitter who meets your family's requirements. Once confirmed, you'll receive your sitter's information before the scheduled booking.
Where do you provide services?
NorthStar Sitters serves families throughout the greater Seattle area and surrounding communities. Contact us to confirm availability in your location.
Booking Questions
How far in advance should I book a sitter?
We recommend booking at least 24–48 hours in advance whenever possible. However, we may be able to accommodate last-minute requests based on sitter availability.
Can I request the same sitter again?
Yes! We understand the importance of consistency. If your preferred sitter is available, we will do our best to match you with them again.
What information do I need to provide when booking?
We typically ask for:
Parent/Guardian name
Contact information
Child(ren)'s ages
Date and time of care needed
Address of care location
Any special instructions or needs
Is there a booking fee?
Yes. A non-refundable booking fee is charged to secure your request and begin the sitter-matching process.
Sitter Questions
Are your sitters experienced?
Yes. NorthStar Sitters seeks caregivers with childcare experience, strong references, and a passion for working with children.
Are sitters background checked?
Background check requirements may vary by sitter. Parents are encouraged to review sitter qualifications and ask any questions before confirming a booking.
Are sitters CPR and First Aid certified?
Many of our sitters hold CPR and First Aid certifications. Certification information will be shared when available.
Can I meet the sitter before the booking?
Absolutely. We encourage phone calls, video chats, or meet-and-greets whenever possible, especially for recurring childcare arrangements.
Babysitting Session
What should I leave for the sitter?
Please provide:
Emergency contact information
Household rules
Bedtime routines
Allergy or medical information
Wi-Fi information (if desired)
Any special instructions
Can sitters help with homework?
Many sitters can assist with homework, reading, and educational activities appropriate for your child's age.
Will the sitter prepare meals?
Sitters can generally prepare simple meals and snacks for children. Specific requests should be discussed before the booking.
Payments & Cancellations
How do I pay for childcare?
Payment instructions will be provided before your booking. Payment methods may include electronic payment, cash, or other approved options.
What is your cancellation policy?
Booking fees are non-refundable. Additional cancellation policies may apply depending on how close to the scheduled booking the cancellation occurs.
What happens if my sitter becomes unavailable?
In the rare event that a sitter cannot fulfill a booking, we will make every effort to find a qualified replacement.
Safety Questions
What if there is an emergency while I'm away?
Sitters will contact emergency services if necessary and immediately notify the parent or guardian using the emergency contacts provided.
Can I check in during the babysitting session?
Of course! Parents are welcome to text or call for updates throughout the booking.
What ages do your sitters care for?
Our sitters may care for infants, toddlers, school-age children, and pre-teens, depending on their individual experience and qualifications.
Recurring Care
Do you offer recurring babysitting services?
Yes. We can help families find sitters for ongoing weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly childcare needs.
Can NorthStar Sitters help with after-school care?
Absolutely. Many families use our services for after-school supervision, homework assistance, and transportation support.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to help!
Email: hello@northstarsitters.com
Phone: 804-709-5440
At NorthStar Sitters, our goal is to help parents feel confident, supported, and at ease whenever they need childcare. 🌟