Preparing Everyone Who Cares for Your Baby: A Safety Guide for Babysitters, Grandparents, and Nannies

As a parent, you spend countless hours thinking about your baby’s safety, but what happens when you’re not the one watching them? Whether it’s a trusted grandparent, a new babysitter, or a full-time nanny, anyone who cares for your baby should be prepared to respond in an emergency.

In Salt Lake City, where many families rely on a close network of caregivers, it’s especially important that everyone is on the same page when it comes to infant safety. This guide will walk you through how to prepare caregivers with the knowledge, tools, and confidence they need to keep your baby safe, even when you’re not home.

Why Caregiver Preparedness Matters

Most infant emergencies don’t happen during extreme situations, they happen during everyday routines like feeding, bath time, or play. Choking, falls, and breathing emergencies can occur quickly, and the first few moments matter.

Many caregivers:

• Haven’t taken an infant CPR class in years (or ever)

• Rely on outdated safety advice

• Panic when something unexpected happens

Preparing caregivers ahead of time can reduce panic, speed up response time, and potentially save a life.

Step 1: Make Infant CPR a Non-Negotiable

One of the most important things you can do is ensure that anyone caring for your baby knows infant CPR and choking response.

This includes:

• Babysitters and nannies

• Grandparents

• Frequent family helpers

• Overnight caregivers

Infant CPR is different from adult CPR, techniques, pressure, and rescue breathing techniques all vary. Taking a class specifically designed for infants ensures caregivers are learning the correct methods. Now Salt Lake City families can choose in-home infant CPR classes so multiple caregivers can learn together in a relaxed, familiar environment.

Step 2: Share Emergency Information Clearly (and Visibly)

In an emergency, caregivers shouldn’t have to search for information. Create a simple emergency sheet and place it somewhere visible, such as the refrigerator or diaper bag.

Include:

• Parent phone numbers

• Emergency contacts

• Baby’s pediatrician and phone number

• Address of your home (important for 911 calls)

• Any allergies or medical conditions

• Nearest hospital or urgent care

For added safety, store the same information in the caregiver’s phone.

Step 3: Walk Through Common Emergency Scenarios

Don’t assume caregivers will “figure it out” in the moment. Talking through scenarios builds confidence and preparedness.

Discuss:

• What to do if your baby is choking

• When to call 911

• Where emergency supplies are kept

• Safe sleep guidelines (back sleeping, no loose items, etc.)

• What is normal vs. when to be concerned

Encourage questions. Even experienced caregivers may hesitate to ask unless invited. Have an open discord and don't make them feel defensive, you are working as a team to help your baby!

Step 4: Demonstrate Your Baby’s Routine

Every baby is different. Showing caregivers your routine can prevent accidents caused by confusion or guesswork.

Go over:

• Feeding positions and pacing

• Bottle or breastfeeding instructions

• Bath safety rules

• Nap routines and sleep environment

• Babyproofed areas vs. off-limits zones

This is especially important for grandparents who may rely on outdated practices that no longer align with current safety guidelines.

Step 5: Prepare a “Caregiver Safety Kit”

A caregiver safety kit helps eliminate hesitation during emergencies.

Consider including:

• Infant CPR instructions (printed or laminated)

• Choking response steps

• Thermometer

• Nasal aspirator

• Emergency contact sheet

• First aid basics

Keep the kit in a consistent, clearly labeled location and show caregivers where it is before you leave.

Step 6: Encourage Ongoing Safety Education

Safety knowledge fades over time. Encourage caregivers to:

• Refresh CPR skills every 1–2 years

• Attend safety classes with you

• Ask questions when unsure

• Stay updated on infant safety recommendations

Many Salt Lake City parents find that group CPR classes for families and caregivers help everyone feel more confident and connected.

Peace of Mind Starts With Preparation

Leaving your baby in someone else’s care is never easy, but preparation makes it easier. When caregivers are trained, informed, and confident, they’re better equipped to handle emergencies calmly and effectively.

At Baby Safe CPR, we believe safety education should be practical, accessible, and family-focused. Preparing everyone who cares for your baby isn’t about fear, it’s about empowerment. Because when it comes to your baby, everyone should be ready.