Our Poppet caregivers are passionate about making your first booking smooth and enjoyable for your family. They're not just here to watch your children but to become a supportive and fun part of their lives.
In this guide, we'll share some tips from other parents to help you and your little ones make the most of your first Poppet experience. Let's get started!
#1 Plan Your Settling in Time
The first 30 minutes of a booking with a new caregivers is designated as settling in time. This is time to chat with your caregiver, play and get to know each other together. You or your caregiver can cancel this booking during the settling in time and you won't be charged. Your caregiver will also be paid in full for the session.
You may also wish to arrange longer trial bookings together with your caregiver. Many caregivers are happy to trial bookings, please letting your caregiver know via the chat this is what you'd like.
#2 Get Chatting
You'll be able to chat and call your caregiver via the Poppet messenger once you've sent them a booking request. You may have a lot of questions, which is great! Caregivers are more than happy to chat and receive calls.
We know sometimes things don't work out - once you've had a chance to chat if you don't want to continue with a booking request you cancel and receive a full refund up to 24 hours before the booking start time.
#3 Have a Intro Checklist
Ask to See Certificates
Caregivers are asked to a copy of their DBS certificate and any other relevant certificates with them to your first booking, so feel free to ask to take a look.
Do a Tour
If the booking is in your own home it's helpful to show your caregiver around. In particular show them changing/toilet and kitchen facilities.
If you're dropping your children off at a caregivers home they will show you around. Feel free to ask questions and clarify anything you're not sure about.
Remind Caregivers About You and Your Family's Needs
t's helpful to give caregivers pointers about what your parenting preferences are when it comes to things like snacks and meals, nap times and screen time.
You must tell your caregiver if your child has any allergies or medical conditions.
It's also helpful to let them know of how your children likes to be comforted, what things they particular enjoy.
Let Your Kids Say 'Hi!'
At the start of every booking we advise that children must be awake. This ensures that a caregiver has the opportunity to introduce themselves and check that children are well at the beginning of a booking, before a parent/guardian leaves.
#4 Offer Reassurance at Send Off
Even after settling in, it's still quite common for children to be a little upset when their parent or guardian first leaves. That's totally normal, and the best way to deal with it is by staying calm and offering reassurance. Distraction with their favourite toy, snack or a game to play can also help!
Over time many children develop a special bond with their caregivers and love spending time with them.
We hope this article was helpful. Remember you can ask the Poppet team questions via the 'Get Help' section in your Profile page.