Babysitter In Disney

[jodifla]

Wow! That's a little harsh. I think she was just trying to offer some helpful information not say that everyone is a sicko pedophile. I am sure that you have had wonderful sitters, but in her line of work I can guarantee that not everyone is that lucky. She wasn't being rude just offering up some tips to insure the safety of the OPs or anyone else's little ones. Nothing wrong with that.

And most kids are hurt by family members, not paid baby sitters. I always think its sad when people are so disturbed by their line of work they can't reason that most people are good. It's THEIR JOB to encounter the bad ones.

I'm a journalist, but that doesn't jade me. I know that we print bad news in the paper because it's out of the ordinary, not the norm, and that makes it news.

 

[Mouse House Mama]

And most kids are hurt by family members, not paid baby sitters. I always think its sad when people are so disturbed by their line of work they can't reason that most people are good. It's THEIR JOB to encounter the bad ones.

I'm a journalist, but that doesn't jade me. I know that we print bad news in the paper because it's out of the ordinary, not the norm, and that makes it news.

I can see where you are coming from, but it is still good to have as much information as possible. Wouldn't you agree? It helps so you can make an informed decision. I also am sure that you have encountered things in your job that you found disturbing as well- I could be wrong so I am sorry if I am - and while it may not leave you without reason, I am willing to bet it changes the way you think of certain things. People can't help but be affected by what surrounds them. Anyway- I am way off topic and I apologize- I just wanted to say that I can understand what you are saying but trying to show you the other side of the coin.

 

[maxtomsmom]

We used Fairy Godmother's last year for the first time. I was a little worried at first, but after spending about 1/2 hour with the sitter I knew she was going to be kind and patient with my two boys 4 and 17 mos. at that time. My suggestion would be to have the sitter arrive earlier than you want to leave. Maybe she could join you while you are giving your child dinner. Then walk around a bit. Afterwards you can go back to the room. The sitter brings toys which will probably be new to your child so he/she would be interested in the sitter. THen while you observe ask yourself the questions you would expect from any sitter. Like I said, we liked her and most importantly so did my kids. The next day, the 4 year old talked about all the things they did together. We're going back again in Dec. and he asked if she will be watching him. This time we are planning a huge family trip, so my mom will watch them. He said he would miss her. Also one fact about Fairy Godmothers- they must be mothers themselves. Good luck!

 

[100 acre wood]

We've used fairy godmothers 3 or 4 times.....the frst time I was very worried about it, I never use sitters other than family at home. So it was a big leap of educated faith for me. Once she arrived the first time (we've used the same lady every time) we spent a half an hour talking with her, and I was very comfy with her watching the kids. I know they screened very carefully and that adds to the comfy level. Now she even hugs us when she sees us because she remembers us and the kids!!!! Our FG is Janet, if you'd like a recommendation. I will be heartbroken if she stops doing the FG thing, we like her that much! God luck no matter what you decide, have fun!

 

[jodifla]

I can see where you are coming from, but it is still good to have as much information as possible. Wouldn't you agree? It helps so you can make an informed decision. I also am sure that you have encountered things in your job that you found disturbing as well- I could be wrong so I am sorry if I am - and while it may not leave you without reason, I am willing to bet it changes the way you think of certain things. People can't help but be affected by what surrounds them. Anyway- I am way off topic and I apologize- I just wanted to say that I can understand what you are saying but trying to show you the other side of the coin.

I do see what you're saying. Knowledge is power. But when you preface things with "I'm a child protective worker, so I never leave kids with sitters..." it just really rubs me the wrong way. I think it sends all the wrong messages, on so many levels.

 

[jodifla]

We used Fairy Godmother's last year for the first time. I was a little worried at first, but after spending about 1/2 hour with the sitter I knew she was going to be kind and patient with my two boys 4 and 17 mos. at that time. My suggestion would be to have the sitter arrive earlier than you want to leave. Maybe she could join you while you are giving your child dinner. Then walk around a bit. Afterwards you can go back to the room. The sitter brings toys which will probably be new to your child so he/she would be interested in the sitter. THen while you observe ask yourself the questions you would expect from any sitter. Like I said, we liked her and most importantly so did my kids. The next day, the 4 year old talked about all the things they did together. We're going back again in Dec. and he asked if she will be watching him. This time we are planning a huge family trip, so my mom will watch them. He said he would miss her. Also one fact about Fairy Godmothers- they must be mothers themselves. Good luck!

We did these things, and it was a great help. We ate dinner at our hotel, so I could go back and check on the situation. And we stayed about a half-hour, so we could make sure we felt comfortable. DH and I even had a code worked out if we decided to change our minds.

 

[DisneyMama2H&O]

We've used the FG twice. Once when my first DS was 18 months. She was great. Last year we used them again with our DS4 & Ds 14 months plus our friends DS3 & DD6. We have them booked for next weekend. We have had a wonderful experience with the Fairy Godmothers and I think the price is pretty good. I couldn't remember the names of the FG's we already had so I didn't request anyone in particular. I will make a note this year and pass on the name when we return.

As far as whether or not it's too late to book I think you wouldn't have any problem giving them a call now. I booked our a few weeks ago but I know that last year we like our FG so much that we asked her if we could have her come another night and she said that she was available the whole week we were there.

Good Luck and enjoy.

 

[Tnkrbelle565]

To all who clearly misunderstood my original message...I was just encouraging people to make sure that they have checked out the agencies. I never said (typed) that all babysitters are bad or pedophiles. Nor am I disturbed by my work. I just know that there are dangerous situations out there and was encouraging people to remember to check with the agencies that each babysitter has had a complete background check. I mentioned my line of work only to explain my position.

I apologize to anyone who misunderstood me. My intent was only for people to have a wonderful vacation.

 

[maxtomsmom]

We did these things, and it was a great help. We ate dinner at our hotel, so I could go back and check on the situation. And we stayed about a half-hour, so we could make sure we felt comfortable. DH and I even had a code worked out if we decided to change our minds.

I like the code idea. A good one to remember for another time. Thanks!

 

[ObsessedwithWDW]

Lets all play nice...I think the whole reason for having these boards is to be able to reach out and get opinions, advice and experiences from other Disney Lovers. We are all in the same boat trying to keep our children happy and safe and our vacations magical. I absolutely respect those that say NO to babysitters and those that use them as well. I actually asked my DH about getting a FG to come to the hotel and he is not comfortable with it...he says its a stranger even if she has been "checked out" so looks like I will be going to Jelly Rolls ALONE while he sits with our daughter. I am printing everyones thoughts for him to read so keep em coming I appreciate ALL your thoughts!!!!! Its a tough call for any mother especially a first timer!!!!

 

[jodifla]

Lets all play nice...I think the whole reason for having these boards is to be able to reach out and get opinions, advice and experiences from other Disney Lovers. We are all in the same boat trying to keep our children happy and safe and our vacations magical. I absolutely respect those that say NO to babysitters and those that use them as well. I actually asked my DH about getting a FG to come to the hotel and he is not comfortable with it...he says its a stranger even if she has been "checked out" so looks like I will be going to Jelly Rolls ALONE while he sits with our daughter. I am printing everyones thoughts for him to read so keep em coming I appreciate ALL your thoughts!!!!! Its a tough call for any mother especially a first timer!!!!

One thing to note: We get the same sitter through FG almost everytime we go. She's not a stranger to us anymore.

 

[ObsessedwithWDW]

One thing to note: We get the same sitter through FG almost everytime we go. She's not a stranger to us anymore.

OH now that would be awesome. My husband is just set against it....I wish I could sway him but oh well....I am sure when DD is alittle older he will be more comfortable. How old were your children when you used FG for the first time?

 

[jodifla]

OH now that would be awesome. My husband is just set against it....I wish I could sway him but oh well....I am sure when DD is alittle older he will be more comfortable. How old were your children when you used FG for the first time?

He was a year old.