Caring for a child while parents work from home can feel a little tricky—for sitters and kids alike. From unexpected drop-ins to blurred boundaries, it’s a dynamic many caregivers are navigating more than ever. In this post, we’re sharing simple, practical guidance to help you confidently support children while maintaining a smooth, respectful rhythm with work-from-home parents.

Sometimes the parent will have downtime during the day and want to spend time with their child, and that’s okay. However, it’s important that you set clear boundaries with the parent at the start of the day so you know exactly when you should step in and when to let the child be with the parent.

If the child and parent spend time with each other during the day, make sure you stay engaged and helpful during that time. Talk with the parent at the beginning of the day and ask if there is anything that needs to be done around the house during downtime. Here are some great ideas on how to be helpful around the house during downtime:

• – Tidy up the child’s room, toys or books
• – Offer to fold the family laundry or do the dishes
• – Chat with the parent
• – (Last resort) Read a book

It’s important that you never resort to being on your phone when the child is awake. This shows that you are disengaged and not there to support and care for the child, which will likely lead to you not being asked to come back.

Looking to hire a babysitter or nanny for your family? Do you have friends that you want to refer who love children and want to be a sitter or nanny? Learn why Bell Family is the best childcare agency in the business, with childcare providers available across the U.S. (on-demand service available in the Tri-state & Dallas areas). Contact us today!