Looking for That Elusive Creature -- the New Year's Eve Babysitter

It's midnight on Jan. 1. Do you know where your kids are?

Brian and Rachel Holland of Westminster will. With a 4-month-old girl now in their family, the couple is electing to stay at home this year. But with a household consisting of seven children, they've become expert at finding just the right babysitter when they need a little time to unwind.

"When interviewing for a babysitter, I look for someone who is First Aid and CPR certified, knows our various numbers and emergency contacts and someone who can drive," explained Rachel, 37. Having worked as a nurse before the birth of her daughter Layla, Holland is conscious about safety from both a parental and medical perspective.

Though it is not the case this year, there have been times when the Hollands have made the decision to go out to celebrate on New Year's Eve. Though they use various, responsible babysitters on a regular basis, the couple likes to rest assured that their children are in good hands with a family member or friend of the family on New Year's Eve and other prolonged outings.

Like the Hollands, many parents say there is a special anxiety in finding a babysitter for New Year's Eve.

Holland's daughter, Alexa, 17, is certified in First Aid and CPR and has been babysitting since the age of 14. As a babysitter, she is very involved in her tasks at hand, interacting with children, providing appropriate interests and keeping things educational.

As a member of a large family, Alexa says she tries to show responsibility in the questions she asks parents beforehand, indicate she is knowledgeable in making sure she has all necessary resources and contacts, and she always knows the plan of emergency in the event of the unexpected.

Alexa completed a course in babysitting at Windsor Mill High School as well as a training course with the American Red Cross. Designed for aspiring babysitters ages 11 to 15, the 7.5 hour training course targets many important areas including: first aid skills; preparedness in handling emergencies such as injuries, illnesses and household accidents; CPR; age appropriate activities; specialized care for children and infants and much more.

"These classes provide the skills and confidence in how to respond to any situation that may come up," explained Doug Lent, 38, Red Cross spokesperson. 

According to Lent, the courses also provide students with marketing skills for use when interviewing prospective parent employers. Students also get a certificate and a personal first aid kit and manual to keep reference cards and skills up to date.

Though it is natural for a parent to be cautious in selecting a babysitter, New Year's Eve, experts say, presents a special challenge.