You’ve received many replies to your "Babysitter Wanted" ads and pleas. You’ve had interviews, and watched the new babysitter with your kids.

It’s time to let her fly solo. With adequate preparation beforehand, this should be a relatively painless procedure.

While you want your children to like the babysitter, security issues are of the first order.

Doors should be locked once parents leave, and yourbabysitter needs to be aware of where the children are at all times. So, talking on the phone to friends, doing homework, and having guests over should all be discouraged. Of course, a good babysitter knows this.

Show the babysitter where to find emergency information, phone numbers where parents can be reached, phone numbers of relatives and neighbors, doctor’s name and phone number, and the phone number for Poison Control.

If any of the children are on any medication, the parents should leave dosage instructions in writing for the babysitter.

In the kitchen, the babysitter needs to be sure that pot handles are turned inward away from grasping fingers, and that knives are safely out of reach. In the bathroom, no small child should be left unattended, even for a second. A child can drown very quickly in a very small amount of water.

It’s a good idea to inform the babysitter of a pre-planned escape route in case of fire. Forethought can make the difference between safety and tragedy.

After children are asleep for the night, the babysitter should check in on them periodically throughout the night.

Agood babysitter will have a different plan in mind for a four year old child than for an older child of say, 12 years of age. Crayons and coloring books, and age-appropriate toys will keep a four year old happy for a long time. A twelve year old will be more independent, and not need constant one-on-one attention.

The presence of an experienced babysitter will create the safe, comfortable environment you want in your home.