Finding reliable childcare isn’t easy. You can’t always rely on friends and family, which often means having to seek out solutions like babysitters, nannies and au pairs. Fortunately, there are now many sites and apps that can help connect you to childcare solutions – including options that are affordable, last-minute or long-term. Below are some of the best sites and apps compared.
#1) Go Au Pair
Go Au Pair is a childcare agency that specializes in au pair services – connecting families with young adults from other countries who are looking to make some money and get accommodation. This is an excellent solution for families in search of a long-term live-in carer. Hiring an au pair could also be an opportunity for foreign language learning and cultural sharing. Go Au Pair happens to be one of the most reputable au pair connection services and it is also one of the most affordable. Just be wary that the visa sponsorship process can take a while, so this is not a good last minute childcare solution.
#2) Nanny Lane
Nanny Lane is a dedicated online nanny marketplace. AI-driven algorithms help connect you with the best childcare matches in your area based on your preferences. You can post ads for free, plus the platform has a unique ‘Nanny Share’ feature, which allows multiple families to split the cost of one nanny (useful for affording childcare in expensive locations like NYC and San Francisco). The site also features in-built tax tools and payroll calculators for navigating the complexities of nanny employment laws.
#3) Care.com
Care.com is a multi-national online platform for seeking out all types of caregivers – including babysitters, petsitters, senior carers and housekeepers. Being such a large and well-known platform, it has the benefit of offering a huge choice of childcare solutions in your area. You can even use advanced search filters to meet specific criteria such as finding pet-friendly caregivers, babysitters who can double as tutors, or even babysitters with medical training for kids with health concerns. Just be wary that the quality of carers can vary a lot more due to less stringent moderation and curation compared to other platforms.
#4) UrbanSitter
UrbanSitter is focused on families living in cities. You are able to connect via your Facebook account, and the site then searches for sitters in your area, pulling recommendations from your existing network where possible. This allows you to find babysitters who may have worked with a neighbor or a friend to provide an extra level of trust. The site has several filters that you can use to narrow your search including being able to search by pay rate
#5) Bambino
Bambino is an excellent app to use if you need a last minute babysitter. It uses GPS to connect you to trusted local sitters and allows you to book immediately and make cashless payments via an app. For date nights and emergencies, it’s the most convenient tool to use. However, it is worth noting that some users have found there to be limited sitting options in less populated areas. This is partly because it’s not as well-known as other apps and also because sitters have to pay a commission fee.
#6) SitterCity
SitterCity is very similar to Care.com in the way it functions, but it is exclusively targeted at childcare services. Families must sign and complete a questionnaire about their needs. The platform then suggests vetted candidates who each have detailed profiles that you can compare. It’s possible to find cheap last minute babysitting services via this app and long-term experienced nanny services. Military families should especially consider this platform as it offers childcare subsidies via the Department of Defence.
#7) Bubble
Bubble is an app with UK origins that has expanded into certain areas of the US. It feels a bit like Uber for babysitters – parents set a price and sitters in your area each place a bid. The ‘bubble credits’ system provides refunds for no-shows, while the apps also video calls for pre-meets and group booking features. While very innovative and flexible, its limited usage in parts of the country means that you may not be able to find sitters outside of major cities.
#8) Taskrabbit
Taskrabbit is the site to go when you need someone to do a task for you. You can use it to find local plumbers, landscapers, cleaners, electricians – and also babysitters. Once you’ve put in your request, you’ll be shown available ‘taskers’ in your area, and you’ll be able to compare their profile, ratings and rates. It’s an easy site to navigate and use, and there are many babysitters using it. However, it’s not recommended if you’re trying to hire a long-term nanny or au pair.
#9) Tootris
Tootris is a subscription-based model that is best suited to parents that need regular childcare. You pay a monthly fee and you then have unlimited access to partnered daycare services and providers in the area – including the option of ‘drop-ins’. All childcare services are thoroughly background checked and the company offers employers the option to subsidize care. The monthly fee means that it is not appropriate for parents that may only need occasional childcare. Outside of major cities, families may also struggle to find childcare services partnered with Tootris.
#10) Nextdoor
Nextdoor is a platform for sharing local community services, as well as buying and selling products locally. It’s free to use and it is used by many local babysitters and childcare services. All users must have their address verified to ensure that they truly are local. Users can also make recommendations, which can be helpful for finding the most trusted babysitters in your area. Childcare services aren’t vetted like on other platforms so make sure to do your own independent research if you feel it’s necessary.
These are just some of the popular national platforms – you should consider that there may be platforms specific to your state or city that could be worth trying. Always look at ratings and make sure babysitters are background checked.
