Finding a good babysitter during the year can be tough, but finding a good babysitter during the holiday season can be downright frustrating.

Here are some secrets to finding a great babysitter so that you don’t miss even one great holiday gathering.

1. Plan ahead.
A sitter’s schedule fills up just as fast (if not faster) than it does for the rest of us. Call early enough to get on the calendar early.

2. Always pay well.
Find out what everyone around you is paying babysitters and pay just a little more. This way sitters will clear their schedule when you call.

3. Try a parent swap.
If you need to get out to go shopping or to a party, then chances are your friends are having the same issues. Try switching kids for the night. One night you have all the kids. Then next night, your friend takes them. It will save in babysitting money and the kids will enjoy the play dates.

4. Shop online…for a sitter.
You may be shopping online for your gifts, but you may also use the internet to find a great babysitter. Sittercity has thousands of babysitters and probably have some great ones right in your local area.

5. Check your school or church
Many of these organizations offer some great “Parents Night Out” fund raisers where they will watch everyone kids for a night for a fee. They often plan some really fun activities for the kids while you enjoy the evening!

Sittercity has a special discount offer: They are offering our visitors 10% off now. Click the banner below to qualify, find a great babysitter, and spend tomorrow night out on the town.