Handled in full
Text us once. We match, schedule, and confirm. Nothing to track. Nothing to chase.
Trusted by NYC parents
For when you need to do anything else.
Text us once. We find you a sitter who's mom-vetted, matched to your neighborhood, and confirmed before you have to think about it again.
I just want to say how much we appreciate your service. It makes our lives so, so much easier.
What makes us different
Childcare you don't have to manage
Someone you'd pick yourself
Every sitter is personally interviewed, background-checked, and recommended by families nearby. By moms, not algorithms.
Actually local sitters
We prioritize nearby caregivers—especially ones who know your neighborhood.
How it works
Book a sitter as quickly as sending a text
Step 1
Tell us about your family
Share your family's needs and anything specific you're looking for in your sitter.
Step 2
Text to book
Message when you need care, and we'll select sitters that are available when you need them.
Step 3
Enjoy peace of mind
After confirming with your sitter, you're all set. We send reminders and resources so you can focus on anything else.
For whenever you need us
Date nights, sick days, the meeting you can't miss.
Date nights
For when you want to go to that new restaurant—the one with no room for strollers.
Out of towners
For when you're visiting NYC and want a local sitter to show your kids around.
Back-up care
For when your primary caregiver is sick or daycare unexpectedly closes—your big meeting, however, is still on.
Moment of peace
For when you don't want to share your croissant with your toddler.
What families are saying
Real reviews from real NYC parents
Jenna G.
Clinton HillParent of 4y & 23m
5 out of 5 stars
“So kind, sweet, amenable, the kids loved her. And she extended her hours when I asked on the fly. Would 100% hire her again.”
Marissa W.
Prospect HeightsParent of 14m
5 out of 5 stars
“She was prompt, communicative, and great with our little guy--and I'm so grateful we were able to schedule it on such short notice!”
Danielle E.
Prospect HeightsParent of 12m
5 out of 5 stars
“Carlian was wonderful! She played with my daughter for while, then took her to the park and I think it was the first time I've been alone in my apartment in 11 months. What a world. It was so nice.”
Care you feel confident about
Vetting like you would do, if you had the time
Every sitter is personally screened, background-checked, and held accountable through real family feedback.
- 1
Video interview
with our founder to review childcare background
- 2
Background check
including a multi-database criminal screening
- 3
Reference check
with a previous employer to verify experience
- 4
Parent reviews
after every sit to ensure our high standards are met
Meet the founder
Why I'm building Forwhen
Hi, I'm Ellie—a mom, former NYC babysitter, and the founder of Forwhen. I started Forwhen because finding childcare should feel reassuring, not stressful. I know how nerve-wracking it feels to leave your child with someone new, so I don't approve anyone I wouldn't feel comfortable recommending to a close friend.
When you book through Forwhen, you're not choosing from strangers on the internet. You're choosing from sitters I've met, screened, and approved.
Any questions before you get started? Text us at (347) 644-2924 or find time on Calendly to connect.
FAQs