It happens so slowly, you may not even notice it at first. You start to think about the good times you had a few years ago, the fun things you did with roommates and other buddies. You remember fun places you went and things you did. You start to build up a file in your mind: Things I Did When I Was Young.

You’ve had some good times, but not lately.

The problem is that you’re understandably nervous about leaving your child with someone you hardly know. If you watch the evening news and have an active imagination, it’s hard not to feel that way. A lot of babysitters seem all right, but some of them aren’t. The thought of taking that chance can be frightening, and there’s nothing wrong with feeling that way.

However, it’s possible to take a good thing to a bad extreme. Becoming too attached isn’t good for you or your child, and it can lead to future dependency issues.

Logic tells you that most babysitters are perfectly trustworthy and competent to take care of your child for a few hours. You just don’t know how to find local babysitters with a good, proven track record. How do you find local babysitters who are as “all right” as they seem?

Luckily the Internet has provided an answer, and it’s the same one used for plumbers, electricians and other service personnel. Online services now list local providers in a variety of businesses and rate their performance on past jobs. They allow you to see reviews from people like you, and they can screen more candidates than any individual could. By using such a service, you can find babysitters online with reviews and contact information. You can also get pertinent details like their pay rate and when they’re available. All the things you used to have to ask about are listed on the site, so it’s easy to find babysitters online who are just right for you.

This way, you’re not taking a chance anymore. You can finally have the peace of mind you need to leave your child with a sitter for a short time. With that assurance, you can go out once in a while and know that everything will be fine when you return.

Please let me know if you have any questions.