familysafetyplanning
Can I bring a babysitter?
Quick answer
Yes, splash pads are fine for babysitter-led visits. Make sure the babysitter has the kids' medical info, your phone number, sunscreen, swim diapers, snacks, and clear rules. A babysitter under 16 supervising multiple young children at a busy pad is borderline — pick a quieter pad and shorter visit.
Babysitter-led splash pad visits are common and generally fine with proper prep. Brief the sitter beforehand: which pad, hours, your kids' rules (sunscreen, snacks, no running), any allergies or medical conditions, your phone number, and an emergency contact backup. Pack the bag yourself so nothing is forgotten. Make sure the sitter is comfortable with wet-environment supervision — slick concrete is harder than dry playground watching. Babysitters under 16 should not be alone with multiple young kids at a busy crowded pad; quieter neighborhood pads are appropriate. Pay for the visit with a venmo'd activity fund covering snacks or treats. Establish whether the sitter takes photos and how to share them. Check in by text mid-visit to confirm everything is going smoothly without being overbearing.