Babysitting Services Frequently Asked Questions

For Parents

You will set the hourly rate you’re offering each time you book through the portal. The minimum hourly rate is $17.50.  Sitters are paid directly by your family at the end of each shift. Please confirm their preferred payment method in advance (such as cash, Venmo, Zelle, or PayPal).

Families are also responsible for discussing parking arrangements and covering any associated parking fees, if applicable.

What should I know about booking sitters through your platform?

1

We work hard to maintain a diverse and dependable pool of sitters, but we cannot guarantee that every booking request will be filled. Bookings remain open until 4 hours prior to the time the booking starts.

We strongly recommend submitting requests as early as possible. If your booking is not being accepted, you may consider adjusting your offered hourly rate based on timing, number of children, special circumstances, or holiday demand.

Please review the recommended rates HERE.

What happens if no sitter accepts my booking request?

2

What if I need to modify or cancel my booking?

3

Once a sitter confirms your booking, you may communicate directly with them to coordinate any changes. If the sitter is no longer available, either party may decline the booking so we can work to identify another match when possible.

Cancellations made within 24 hours of the booking require $50 payment to the sitter. If the booking is cancelled once the sitter arrives, a $75 fee is owed to the sitter.

Will I receive a booking credit if the sitter cancels or if I cancel with adequate notice?

4

Yes. If a booking qualifies for a credit under our policies, please email info@southerncoastnannies.com, and we will promptly restore your booking credit. Cancellations must be made with more than 24 hour notice to qualify for a credit.

How can I communicate with my matched sitter before the appointment?

5

Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive the sitter’s contact information and be added to a group text through the platform. You are welcome to schedule a phone call or video chat prior to the booking. If you prefer to meet in person beforehand and the sitter agrees, you may arrange a time together. Please note that in-person meetings are billable at the sitter’s standard hourly rate.

How are sitters vetted?

6

All Southern Coast Nannies sitters:

  • Are 18+ years old

  • Have at least one year of childcare experience

  • Complete background screening

  • Provide professional references

  • Hold CPR/First Aid certification

  • Have reliable transportation

We personally review and screen every caregiver.

Is a mobile phone number required?

7

Yes. A verified mobile number is required so you can receive booking notifications and communicate with your sitter once confirmed.

If you have a non-U.S. mobile number, please contact us at info@southerncoastnannies.com or call 910-348-8832 for assistance.

Can I contact sitters to book them without using the platform?

8

No. All bookings with sitters introduced through Southern Coast Nannies must go through the agency unless written permission is provided by SCN. Circumventing the platform may result in removal from our services for both your family and the sitter.

For Sitters

How long do I have to respond to a booking notification?

1

Job openings remain available until 4 hours before the scheduled start time, provided another sitter hasn't already accepted. You'll see key booking details prior to acceptance including the general location (street and neighborhood, but not the exact address initially), children's ages, and any specific family instructions.

Can I verify families after accepting a booking?

2

Yes. After accepting a booking, you will receive the parent’s contact information and may schedule a phone call, video chat, or in-person meeting if desired.

Please only accept bookings where you feel safe and comfortable. If you have concerns at any time, you may cancel the booking and contact Southern Coast Nannies for support. Our team can review booking details and group messages as needed. Never hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns.

Can a family book me directly without using the platform or going through SCN?

3

No. All bookings with families introduced through Southern Coast Nannies must go through the agency unless written permission is provided. Circumventing the platform may result in you no longer receiving bookings through SCN. If a family attempts to book you directly, please notify SCN right away.

Is it possible to block future bookings with certain families?

4

Yes. Please contact Southern Coast Nannies, and we will assist you in restricting future bookings with that family.

Do I still receive payment if a family cancels last minute?

5

Yes. Please reach out to SCN at info@southerncoastnannies.com if your booking is cancelled last minute. 

  • If a family cancels a confirmed booking with less than 24 hours’ notice, a $50 cancellation fee per sitter applies.

  • If a family cancels after you have arrived at the job location, the fee increases to $75 per sitter.

How can I make it easier for favorite families to rebook me?

6

You can share your availability calendar directly with families through the app:

  1. Navigate to “My Calendar.”
    Click the “Share” button in the upper right corner.

  2. Enter the family’s email address.

Families may request you directly, even if your calendar has not been recently updated.