? about babysitting svcs at resorts

[june@imsarc.com]

I don't need info on the different resort drop-off/babysitting areas, I'm interested in finding out about babysitting services where the sitter comes to your room. I don't think this is a "Disney" business, but don't they offer some agency or something?

I'd appreciate any info you can share w/ me regarding having a qualified sitter come to our room to watch our 3 kids (13, 9, 5) one evening on our next trip.

Thanks, in advance for your help!

 

[nucpharm29]

We have made a reservation with Kid's Nite out for our DD in April. I've read really good things about them on this board. Their website is www.kidsniteout.com. They charge $14/hr with 4 hr minimum for 1 child, I think it goes up to 16/hr for 2. You also have to pay an $8 transportation fee. The website lists their 1-800 number to make ressies--you have to pay by credit card only. I'm a SAHM and am excited to have a night out with DH w/o DD. Be prepared for some wondering how you could leave your children with a stranger. I figure, my best babysitter was a stranger the first time she sat for us. The Kid's nite out sitters are well trained and bring toys and games (age appropriate) for your little ones! There is also a service called Fairy Godmothers, also with good reviews here. I'm not sure of the number, but you could do a search on this board to find out!

 

[june@imsarc.com]

Thanks!

Any other parents w/ info to share?

 

[Selket]

Here is a link to the info here: http://www.wdwinfo.com/just_for_kids/childcare.htm

It doesn't list the Fairy Godmothers but many here have used them with no problems. They are who we used on our last trip to watch my 20 month old son in our room. She did a fine job but I wasn't 100% comfortable with her (and in hindsight that made me miserable the whole time I was out! She was actually a good sitter - it is a long story that I've detailed here before so I won't go into it but anyway). The FG service seems to be owned by one woman who runs it.

I think if I used a service again I'd use the one Disney recommends which is Kid's nite Out. I like the fact that Disney recommends them - even has promotional brochures at the front desk for them - they seem more "sanctioned" and therefore I'm more comfortable, should there be any emergency issue - that the sitter would know how to work with the Disney staff.

I've read these boards for MANY years and not read anything bad about either babysitting service (FG or KNO). I would suggest that if leaving them makes you nervous that you plan an outing in your hotel (like have dinner at the hotel if possible). Also you could arrange some times with the sitter that you will call the room and check on how things are going. If you have 2 cell phones you could leave one with her - that might make a call easier and cheaper. Also if you allow her to go out of the room with them that way you could reach them by phone at any time.

Your kids are MUCH older than my son was so I think - especially with a 13 yr old there I wouldn't spend a second worrying about them!