Babysitter Contract Template
Kids, keys, and a sitter alone in your home — trust is the easy part, clarity is the hard part. Hours, pay, duties, and emergency steps belong in a babysitter contract template, not in a text message.
Customize & DownloadBabysitter Contract Template Sample
This Babysitting Contract is entered into as of [1. Effective Date] by and between [2. Parent or Guardian Full Name] (the “Parent”) and [3. Babysitter Full Name] (the “Babysitter”).
1. Child.
The childcare covered by this agreement applies to the following child or children: [4. Child Names and Ages]. The Parent represents that the information provided about each child’s health, allergies, and routines is accurate and current.
2. Schedule.
The Babysitter shall provide care on the schedule set out in [5. Schedule], beginning on [6. Start Date]. The Parent shall provide at least [7. Schedule Notice Hours] hours’ notice for schedule changes, and the Babysitter shall provide the same notice when unable to work a scheduled shift.
3. Duties.
The Babysitter’s duties include supervising the children, preparing meals as directed, assisting with homework, and maintaining reasonable tidiness. Duties do not include heavy housework, laundry, or tasks outside the scope of childcare unless separately agreed.
4. Compensation.
The Parent shall pay the Babysitter [8. Hourly Rate] per hour, payable [9. Payment Schedule]. Overtime, defined as hours beyond [10. Regular Hours] per week, shall be paid at [11. Overtime Rate]. A cancellation fee of [12. Cancellation Fee] applies if care is cancelled with less than [13. Cancellation Notice Hours] hours’ notice.
5. House Rules.
The Babysitter shall follow the house rules described in [14. House Rules], including rules on visitors, phone use, and screen time for the children. The Babysitter shall not leave the children unattended or transport them without the Parent’s prior approval.
6. Emergencies.
In an emergency, the Babysitter shall contact the Parent first, then the emergency contacts listed in [15. Emergency Contacts]. The Babysitter is authorized to seek emergency medical care for a child, including transportation and treatment, if the Parent cannot be reached. The Parent agrees to reimburse the Babysitter for reasonable emergency expenses.
7. Medication and Allergies.
If any child requires medication or has allergies, the details and instructions are set out in [16. Medication and Allergy Instructions]. The Babysitter shall administer medication only as instructed.
8. Liability.
The Babysitter shall provide care with reasonable skill and attention. The Babysitter shall not be liable for accidents or injuries that occur despite reasonable care, and the Parent shall inform the Babysitter of any known hazards in the home.
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What's Included
6 provisionsThis template is provided for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Childcare and liability laws vary by state; consult an attorney before use.
How to Use
Create the childcare form
The contract follows 2026 babysitting practice, with emergency and liability clauses ready.
Enter the care details
Add the parent, babysitter, child, schedule, rate, duties, house rules, and emergency contacts.
Save the agreement
Preview the contract and download it as Word or PDF for both parties to keep.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a babysitting contract include?
The child's details, schedule, pay rate and overtime, duties, house rules, emergency contacts, medication instructions, and liability terms.
Should a babysitter be authorized to seek emergency care?
Yes — written authorization lets the sitter call for help and approve treatment if the parent cannot be reached. It should state any spending limit and the preferred provider.
What is a reasonable cancellation fee for babysitting?
A fee equal to a few hours of pay, triggered when cancellation happens with less than a set notice — often 24 hours — is common and fair to both sides.
Are babysitters liable if a child gets hurt?
Only if the injury resulted from the sitter's negligence or failure to follow instructions. Accidents that occur despite reasonable care are not the sitter's fault.
