Have you hired a babysitter while on vacation?

[chefkellyb]

DH and I are traveling to SSR Sept 23-Oct 3 with our DD 4 and DS 2 and another couple with a DD 4 and DS 2. We were wondering if anyone has ever hired a babysitter while on vacation? This may sound selfish, but it would be nice for the 4 adults to have a quiet dinner together. Do any of the resorts have those kind of services for hire? Of course I do have the same concerns as most parents would have with any babysitter about safety, trust, etc... Any info would be greatly appreciated.

 

[robinb]

We used the Fairy Godmothers service a few times at WDW. They'll send someone to your room to sit with the kids. The 4 year olds would be able to to a kids club (like the Neverland Club at the Polynesian), but the 2 year olds will need in-room care.

 

[Tnkrbelle565]

Is there someone who you could take along to watch the kids? I'm bringing my mom on the next trip to watch DD while DH and I do some adult rides/meals/PI etc. No flames here but PERSONALLY I don't trust any babysitting services. I'm sure plenty of people have had positive experiences...this is just my "thing."

 

[robinb]

I'm sure plenty of people have had positive experiences...this is just my "thing."

I am one of the people who have had very positive experiences with both the Fairy Godmothers and the Kids Clubs. My DD particularly likes the Neverland Club and the Dolphin Club (at the Dolphin).

 

[FromVatoDisney]

This is the first time I have ever posted in one of these kinds of threads and is probably going to be the last, because they make me so sad. To the OP --- *please* hire the Fairy Godmother or whatever they are called (I don't know because my kids are 6 and 9 so we were able to use the Cubs' Den at WL) and go out and have a nice dinner with your dh and your friends!!!

I have to think Disney screens these folks amazingly well... really, can you imagine what would happen to Disney if a CM hired as a babysitter under Disney auspices hurt or neglected a child?

There is nothing wrong and everything right with parents going out and enjoying each other and their friends. *Your marriage* is the foundation of your family. Anything you can do to keep it thriving directly benefits your children.

 

[jodifla]

Is there someone who you could take along to watch the kids? I'm bringing my mom on the next trip to watch DD while DH and I do some adult rides/meals/PI etc. No flames here but PERSONALLY I don't trust any babysitting services. I'm sure plenty of people have had positive experiences...this is just my "thing."

Poster was specifically asking for those who had used sitting services. This counts you out, I believe.


Chefkellyb, we've used Fairy Godmothers a half-dozen times. They've been great. We had one woman once, and the other about five times. Our DS, now 3, just loves her. She brings a suitcase full of toys, and he is happy and content to play with her. When we come back, he's fast asleep. If you have any specific questions, feel free to message me.

 

[twojo21]

disney does offer kids clubs at most of their deluxe resorts but they are for 4-12 year of age, potty trained, i see you have a 2 year old. your best bet then would be kids nite out 407-828-0920 they come to your resort room, all ages 6mos+, they are cpr certified, will bring games/movies, will feed them, put them to bed, etc. we have gone on group trips & my aunt & family have used them many times.

 

[Yensid_MD]

See my other post on this same subject. Fairy Godmothers are great. Here is thier number (407) 969-9847 and toll free 877-611-4314.

Request Vivian if she is available. She is wonderful. We have used her three times. The first two were coincidence, the third time we requested her. And we have her booked for our next trip as well.

 

[Brina]

yes, we used fairy godmothers last trip, and we have them booked for one night this trip.

 

[njziggy]

Our kids (much older now - 10 & 7) have always loved the Neverland club. We also try, every other trip or so, to go done with family or friends so we can switch off sitting duties- the kids get a good nights rest & everyone gets some "private time".

 

[justKim]

Fairy godmothers are great. Just don't ask for Vera. You wouldn't be happy with her. No, I mean I wouldn't be happy if you get her. We are planning a trip for the same weekend and my kids miss Vera and are anxious to see her again! My son is old enough for the kids club, but doesn't like it. He would rather have a babysitter. We've used a couple from Fairy Godmothers and been very happy.

And FromVatoDisney, Fairy Godmothers is not a Disney company. The owner (very nice lady, don't remember her name) hires out sitters to WDW guests, but they are not screened by Disney.

To the OP, ignore people trying to make this into a debate. Your kids, your family, your vacation. Have fun!

 

[Frankiesmom]

You can reserve these services before you arrive? That sounds like a great idea. We are travelling in Jan. for a land/sea vaca. with extended family and it would be nice to have an eve out where we can all enjoy some adult time together-we are the only ones in the group with kids;so this would be very helpful. Thanks. Angel

 

[robinb]

You can reserve these services before you arrive?

Yes, in fact it's better to arrange for a babysitter in advance. You should already know your meal schedule by 45-60 days out, so you will know that date that you will need the babysitter.

 

[fran99999]

I sent my DS6 to the Neverland club and he loved it. I would have used the in room sitter if it was necessary. I believe that parents will be able to parent better with some relief. A nice dinner out will get you away from the children for some quiet time and get the child away from you for some quiet time. I love all my children but vacation in disney is stressful and this quiet time help me parent better ie not get quite so stressed after the long wait for a ride or show to be told "I have to go to the bathroom right now!" UGGhh the bathroom is on the other side of the park. LOL It helps me just let it roll of and have a better vacation. Better than yelling at the kids to just have a good time, and shut up. I cringe when I hear that one. You can tell the parents need quiet time and the kids need it also.

Go have a good time I bet the next day it wont be so stressful. We all need to get away. Not everyone can or wants to spend 24/7 with kids that alone is stressful on an adult and the kids.

PS. I do love all 10 of my kids (ages from 28 to 6) dont want you all to think i am against kids just know that absence makes the heart grow fonder.