Get a trusted sitter in no time
Spend less time finding a vetted sitter to take care of your kids. We’re here for when you need to do anything else.
How it works
1. Tell us about your family
Complete a survey to share your family’s needs and any specific interests or experiences you’d like your sitter to have.
2. Text to book
Send us a message when you need care, and we’ll select sitters that match your criteria and are available when you need them.
3. Enjoy peace of mind
After confirming details with your sitter, we’ll handle the rest. We send booking reminders and tailored resources so you can focus on the rest of your busy life.
What makes us different
Expertly vetted sitters: We do the heavy lifting with interviews, background checks, and reference checks. So when you’re ready to book your next night out, they’re set to go.
Play with purpose: Our sitters prioritize engaging play and limited screen time. We send them age-specific resources so they always have activity ideas ready.
Concierge service: We manage personalized booking and matching via SMS, so we’re always just a few taps away.
No long-term contracts: We don’t charge you a membership fee, just a $5 booking fee per sit. 100% of the sitter’s pay goes directly to them, ensuring they’re paid fairly for their work.
Consistent care, every time.
We’ve set a standard of care that’s fun for kids and gives you peace of mind.
What families are saying
I don’t know what I’d do without Forwhen! My kids aren’t comfortable with just anyone, but we’ve been matched with experienced and fun sitters who they truly look forward to seeing. Plus, knowing they’re in good hands makes a night away that much easier.
— Heather, mom of 2, Park Slope
As a mother of a 2 and 3-year-old, I was eager to start getting out again but struggled to find a trustworthy babysitter. Discovering this service has been an absolute godsend. Every sitter they've sent has been fantastic, and their responsiveness and communication are top-notch. I can't recommend them highly enough!
— Christine, mom of 2, Brooklyn Heights
All of our sitters are interviewed by our founder and then undergo a background check and reference check. They range from full-time childcare professionals to students to working 9-5ers with diverse know-hows and backgrounds, all with years of experience working with kids. We prioritize ensuring sitters are paid fair wages and don’t take any fees out of their hourly pay, compared to most other childcare platforms which take a hefty cut.
Our sitters
Our sitters
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Anna lives in Fort Greene and is a graduate student in social work and has been working with kids since her days as a camp counselor. She loves doing hands-on activities and crafts with kids.
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Breana lives in Harlem and is an infant specialist at a day care in Park Slope and loves spending time with little ones—tummy time is her favorite!
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Mickey lives in Downtown Brooklyn is a student at NYU majoring in XX and is originally from the Phillippines, where she grew up taking care of her nieces and nephews. She loves making up games and doing karaoke.
Meet the founder
👋 Hi, I’m Ellie (and that’s Bug). I started Forwhen after my own experience as a NYC babysitter and a start-up veteran. I knew there had to be a better way to find work as a sitter and to give my parent friends a few hours off from being called mom or dad. I’m passionate about making connections between your family and the wonderful sitters on our platform who love nothing more than caring for your little ones and giving you the break you deserve.
Sign up to find a sitter today