How many references should a babysitter provide?

Two is the minimum to ask for - ideally from people they've worked for in a childcare or professional setting. Friends and family don't count. If a babysitter has limited experience, a teacher or other trusted adult who knows them well is a reasonable alternative.

Is it worth checking references if I've already had a good interview?

Yes. An interview shows you how someone presents themselves; a reference shows you how they actually perform. The two don't always match. A quick phone call to a previous employer can confirm your instincts or flag something you might otherwise have missed.

What if a reference gives a vague or lukewarm answer?

Treat it as a signal worth paying attention to. Ask a follow-up question - for example, 'Can you give me a specific example?' or 'Would you book them again?' If the reference struggles to give you a clear, positive answer, that tells you something. It doesn't mean you rule the candidate out, but it's worth factoring in.

Do I need to check references if a babysitter already has reviews on an app?

Reviews on a platform like Bubble are genuinely useful - they're from real parents who've booked the same carer and can speak to their experience. The platform also conducts its own reference checks before a sitter goes live. Whether you want to do additional checks yourself is a personal decision, but the information already available to you is a good starting point.

What's the difference between a reference check and a DBS check?

A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check reveals whether someone has a criminal record. A reference check tells you what they're like to work with - their reliability, how they handle children, whether previous parents were happy with them. Both serve different purposes. A DBS check is one factor some parents consider, but it doesn't replace the value of speaking to someone who's actually used the carer.