These guidelines shall apply to all babysitters, whether paid or volunteer. Babysitting services are exempt from licensing by the State Department of Social Services, since such services are defined as being provided when a parent/guardian is on the premises; e.g., children being tended in the same building as the association meeting being attended by parents. Babysitting services must be provided by two unrelated persons 18 or over for parents engaged in PTA-sponsored volunteer activities or parents who are attending a PTA meeting.
All babysitters paid by the PTA must be listed on the Workers’ Compensation Annual Payroll Report form filed by each PTA and submitted to AIM no later than January 31 of each year. Treasurers must ensure that records of such payments are kept current, both for the PTA’s records and to facilitate completing the required Workers’ Compensation Annual Payroll Report.
State law mandates that “every employer shall establish, implement and maintain an effective injury and illness prevention program.” Any PTA that pays wages directly to an individual must comply with this state law.
The PTA may charge a reasonable fee for babysitting services.
For more information on the noncommercial policy see Bylaws for Local PTA/PTSA Units, Article III, a. and b.
It is important to note that the PTA, PTA officers, board-members, and all volunteers involved in a PTA event/activity where babysitting is provided are covered under the PTA provided liability insurance. Paid babysitters are considered independent contractors and are not covered by the PTA liability insurance if sued personally.
Insurance Requirements
Guidelines for babysitters:
- There are at least two unrelated persons 18 or over in attendance at all times.
Children are kept in a safe environment:
- If outdoors – in an enclosed playground.
- If indoors – in a room with safe, age-appropriate toys.
- Bathroom facilities should be nearby.
Child:adult ratios are not exceeded:
- 0 to 5 years of age, 10 children to 2 adults; 1 additional person, high school age or older, for 11-15 children, and so forth.
- 6 to 10 years of age, 14 children to 2 adults; 1 additional person, high school age or older, for 15-28 children, and so forth.
A babysitter shall not change any diapers. A parent should be called to perform this task.
