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Find a babysitter in Santa Cruz, CA

Browse background checked babysitters near you in Santa Cruz. Compare local reviews, rates, and experience to find the right fit.

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68 available babysitters in Santa Cruz, CA

Families in Santa Cruz use UrbanSitter for date nights, after school help, and last-minute babysitting.

All babysitters shown here are background checked every year. Learn more.

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Elizabeth $30 per hour for 1 child

Hello! My name is Elizabeth, and I have been working with children and families for over 25 years in many different settings—as a babysitter, live-in nanny, tutor, after-school and summer program leader, scout camp staff, in-patient and out-patient mental health treatment provider, facilitating parenting classes, and as a therapist specializing in youth and families. I also grew up caring for my four younger brothers, as well as many nieces and nephews, so childcare has always been a natural part of my life. Alongside childcare, I have provided professional dog and cat sitting, cared for my own pets (including a bearded dragon!), and supported families with household tasks and cleaning. For example, I worked weekly for a family in Palo Alto for eight months, helping keep their home clean and welcoming. I especially enjoy organizing and home decor. With a background in social work and mental health, I strive to create a safe, affirming space for children and families, and I am experienced in supporting LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals. I hold a Master’s degree in Social Work and a minor in Music, and I enjoy incorporating creativity, patience, and structure into the care I provide. Personally, I grew up in a small mountain town in Northern Utah, but have now called the Bay Area home for the past 15 years. Outside of work, I love rock climbing, reading, playing guitar and singing, art, tabletop games, and spending time at the beach. I’m also bilingual in English and conversational/intermediate-advanced Spanish. I’m a proud parent to two wonderful kids—an 18-year-old who lives in Utah and a 5-year-old who just started kindergarten. With my youngest now in school and spending part of the week with the other parent, I have more flexibility in my schedule to provide reliable care and support for other families. I bring not only professional experience but also the heart of a parent to the work I do. I look forward to meeting you! P.S. I have been certified many times over in the past for infant and child CPR and first aid, but am not currently up-to-date. I would be happy to re-certify if needed for the right fit.

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April 1 review
$25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Santa Cruz, CA

A versatile and empathetic International Baccalaureate and California Credentialed teacher, April brings a rich background spanning Preschool through Adult Education, with experience in Physical Education, Dance, Theater, and English. She has been in public education classrooms since 1997. Known for creating energetic, student-centered learning environments, she blends creativity with strong interdisciplinary skills. With conversational abilities in Spanish and French, she connects easily with diverse learners. Outside the classroom, April is an avid arts-and-crafts enthusiast and a devoted animal lover—especially fond of dogs, cats, and horses—bringing warmth, curiosity, and joy to every community she joins.

Outstanding care. Engaged fully the whole time - kid got some exercise and was well cared for physically, emotionally, and mentally. Kid kept talking about having a good time and wants to see her again soon! Highly recommended.

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Amelie $25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Santa Cruz, CA

Hi, I’m Amelie. I’m 24 years old and I from France. I work since 2020 with children in France, like babysitting, school, leisure center, summer camp. I have a lot of experience to take care the children. I live in California since almost 1 year and I work as a nanny. I’m very patient person and joyful.

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Cynthia
Booked by 1 repeat family
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Santa Cruz, CA

Hi! My name is Cynthia & I’m 22 years old. I am offering child care, senior care and pet care, yay! I love being around kids, I grew up around kids my entire life. My mom owned a daycare for 10 years so I got the opportunity to help her and gain experience. My responsibilities have included picking kids up from school/ taking them to the park & occasionally cooking for them if requested by parent. As well as helping with homework. I currently work at an elementary school and have knowledge on special education as well! I am open to all :) I am also happy to work with dogs and or cats. I have always enjoyed animal sitting for friends & family.

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Gisselle $29 per hour for 1 child

Hello:)) My full time job is a medical assistant/ scribe for behavioral and developmental pediatrics. I love my job and I wouldn’t have it any other way ! I have experience with kids from newborns up to teens through my 3 years as a medical assistant in pediatrics. I do also have experience taking care of the kiddos through family friends. On my free time I enjoy cooking and Traveling. I do believe I have a bubbly and energetic personality :) Bonus: I do also speak fluent Spanish!

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Recent babysitter activity in Santa Cruz, CA

Trust and safety come first

Every babysitter's profile is individually reviewed by UrbanSitter's Trust & Safety team after clearing an annual background check. Rely on reviews from local families to help you find your best fit.

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"Recommendations from friends are a must when it comes to a sitter for my kids. UrbanSitter has expanded our network of babysitters, and it has given us peace of mind."

Matt K., dad of two

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"UrbanSitter has supported my needs for reliable and joyful sitters. Whether it be for work, recreation or last-minute emergencies, we've made wonderful relationships with local sitters who have become a part of our family!"

Natalie O., mom of five

photo of quoted parent Laura

"UrbanSitter is my go-to for quality sitters! I can book weeks ahead of time or easily find a same-day sitter when in a bind. I even hired a part-time nanny during a daycare transition. Customer service is helpful and babysitters respond in a timely manner."

Laura F., mom of two

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Frequently asked questions about Santa Cruz babysitters

What does a babysitter do?

Babysitters supervise children and keep them safe while you're away. Depending on your needs, they may also help with meals, bedtime, homework, light cleanup, school pickup, or activities.

How do I find a babysitter near me?

Sign up for a free UrbanSitter account, post a job with your dates and needs, and review babysitter profiles, including distance, before choosing the right fit. Learn more about how UrbanSitter works.

Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?

Yes. Every Santa Cruz babysitter on UrbanSitter is background checked annually, and each profile is individually reviewed by a trained specialist on our Trust & Safety team. Learn more about what's included in a background check.

What's the best way to find a last-minute babysitter in Santa Cruz?

Sign up for a free UrbanSitter account, then request a babysitter by posting a job with your needs. In most cities, sitters will reply within minutes, so you can review choices quickly, then book them immediately.

Can I find babysitters for after school care in Santa Cruz?

Yes. Families often use UrbanSitter for after school care, including pickup, homework help, tutoring, and early evening coverage. You can filter for babysitters who are willing to drive or have their own car.

Can I find babysitters for evenings, weekends, or extended hours in Santa Cruz?

Yes. Families in Santa Cruz use UrbanSitter for date nights, weekend plans, extended hours, and other scheduling needs. You can review each sitter's availability and experience to find someone who fits your hours.

Resources

The Ultimate Babysitter Guide for Parents

A step-by-step guide to hiring the right babysitter.

Tips for Finding Last-Minute Child Care

How to find a babysitter fast when plans change.

Top 20 Questions to Ask a Babysitter in an Interview

Essential questions to help you find a great fit.

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