A trustworthy sitter will make any parent's life easier. But where can you find one?

Don't forget, the younger the child, the more important it is that your babysitter has some experience. Don't let anyone babysit an infant if they have no experience of babies.

Where to look for a sitter
Ask your friends for names of sitters but always check their references yourself. If you have a friend or neighbour with a student son or daughter, ask if they are interested in earning extra money. But don't forget, the younger the child, the more important it is that your babysitter has some experience. Don't let anyone babysit an infant if they have no experience of babies.

Try a babysitting circle - that's when a group of families get together and swap tokens for hours of childminding. Local NCT branches will have contact details. Childminders and staff at the local nursery often babysit, and they're police-vetted.

Short notice solutions
Babysitting agencies charge a registration fee but hourly rates are average. They can provide sitters at short notice but it may be somebody your child isn't familiar with. Don't force older children to babysit. It may build up resentment and if the older child can't cope, he will feel guilty and anxious.

• Babysitters: Caring For Your Child's Carer
• Babysitter Checklist: What They Need To Know