How do I check a babysitter's references?

Do not hire a sitter when you cannot check references!  (Do not hire a stranger, even if they took a babysitting preparation class.) 

• Call the person who gave you the sitter's name and ask questions.  The young person may be a family friend or relative of the referring person or a parent who has actually used the sitter. 
• Put the person at ease about your motives.  Ask for general information.  If the parent has actually used the sitter, ask for the ages of their children, the frequency of sitting, and the usual length of the job. 
• Explain your situation, such as the ages of your children, frequency of sitting needed, and special considerations. 
• Ask specific questions, such as
  • Do your children like the sitter?
  • Did the sitter follow the house rules?
  • Has there ever been an unpleasant incident?
  • Is there anything else you need to know?   
• Pay attention to your instincts about trustworthiness and fit with your child/children.