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National Babysitters Day

Celebrated on 05/09/2026

Quick Fact

National Babysitters Day was established in 2003 by child safety advocate and author Jada Collins. Observed annually on the Saturday before Mother’s Day, the day was created to recognize the important role childcare providers play in supporting families. The initiative focuses on honoring the responsibilities of babysitters while promoting the importance of safety training and professional development in childcare.

Origins and Establishment of National Babysitters Day

National Babysitters Day was created by the babysitting platform Sittercity in 2017 to recognize the important role babysitters play in families' lives. The day was intentionally set on the Saturday before Mother's Day to highlight how babysitters help mothers and families, allowing them to take a break or celebrate. Since its inception, the holiday has been promoted through social media campaigns and partnerships with parenting and childcare organizations.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Initially, National Babysitters Day was primarily observed online, with families and sitters sharing appreciation posts using #NationalBabysittersDay. Over time, it has grown to include community events, such as babysitter appreciation parties and discounts on babysitting courses. Today, many families use the day to give their babysitters small gifts, extra pay, or thank-you cards, while babysitting platforms often feature stories of exemplary sitters.

Facts & General Observations

  • Approximately 1.5 million babysitters work in the United States, with the majority being teenagers aged 13-19.
  • The average hourly rate for a babysitter in the U.S. is around $16.75, varying by location and experience.
  • Babysitting is often a first job for many teens, teaching responsibility, time management, and basic first aid skills.

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