Family with caregiver

Find an emergency babysitter in Palo Alto, CA

Palo Alto families count on UrbanSitter for same-day emergency child care. In most areas, average response time for urgent needs is under two minutes.

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107 available babysitters in Palo Alto, CA

Families in Palo Alto turn to UrbanSitter for emergency and same-day babysitting.

Every babysitter on UrbanSitter completes an annual background check, and every profile is individually reviewed by our Trust and Safety team. Learn more.

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Andee 1 review
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 2 families in Palo Alto, CA

Hi! My name is Andee, and I bring over 10 years of childcare experience working primarily with children ages 4-12, along with 7 years of experience as an educator. After working as a special education and elementary school teacher, I am now earning my credential in mathematics to become a middle school teacher. I love incorporating learning into everyday moments and am always happy to support with homework or provide math tutoring during our time together at no extra cost. I’ve led summer enrichment programs including science and cooking camps, so I enjoy creating engaging, structured activities. I also greatly value the importance of unstructured play and giving kids the space to relax, explore, and be themselves. I strive to find a thoughtful balance between fun, creativity, and gentle structure. I have experience working with neurodivergent children and take on a collaborative, individualized approach, partnering closely with families to understand each child’s unique needs so they can feel supported, comfortable, and confident. One of my personal passions is financial literacy, and I love finding age-appropriate ways to introduce simple money mindset concepts through fun, optional activities (only if this is something your family is interested in!). I’m a big animal lover and grew up with pets: currently I have two cats, Dougie and Mac (named after rappers), and a sweet dog named Mila, so I’m very comfortable in homes with animals. I also have a reliable car and a clean driving record. Above all, I aim to create a warm, positive, and dependable environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to spend time together. Due to my full-time work + school schedule, my availability isn't as open as I would like. However, I do occasionally have weekend or night openings when schedules align, so feel free to reach out. I’d love to connect and see if I might be a good fit for your family! 😊

Andee was an absolute joy! She came prepared with arts and crafts, was a great communicator, and immediately connected with both of our kids. They absolutely raved about her afterward. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience and would happily have her back!

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Valentyna 1 review
$30 per hour for 1 child

Hi - My name is Val. I love being a babysitter and have been watching newborns, infants, toddlers, and kids (including twins!) since I was 18 years old. My responsibilities have included driving to/from school, crafts, tutoring, and even dance lessons. I also work as a household assistant and can cook, clean, and run errands.

Valentyna has been a wonderful caregiver for our young children. She is consistently punctual, incredibly responsible, and always communicates clearly, which gives us complete peace of mind. Beyond her professionalism, Valentyna is a genuinely kind person. Because she is a mother herself, she brings a deep level of understanding, empathy, and patience to her caregiving. We highly recommend her to any family looking for someone reliable and wonderful!

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Ava
Booked by 1 repeat family
2 reviews
$23 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 4 families in Palo Alto, CA

My name is Ava! I play soccer and study biology at UCSB. I grew up with younger siblings babysitting them all the time and currently babysit a 2 year old regularly. I am in Santa Barbara for soccer and school and have done a bunch of babysitting jobs and have a lot of experience!!! I would love to help out in my free time!!

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Natalie $35 per hour for 1 child

Hi! My name is Natalie and I’m a reliable, positive, and organized caregiver who enjoys helping families keep their homes running smoothly. While I am newer to professional caregiving, I have experience supporting family members with children, pets, and household responsibilities. Through teaching dance classes and working in leadership roles, I’ve developed patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to create a fun and safe environment for others. I’m naturally energetic, creative, and attentive, which allows me to connect easily with kids and keep them engaged through activities like music, movement, crafts, and games. My goal is always to make families feel supported and give parents peace of mind knowing their babies are in good hands. I’m excited to gain more experience, build long-term relationships with families, and provide a caring, responsible presence in the home. I’m looking forward to meeting you, your little ones and support whether it’s long term or temporary!

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Jessica $30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Palo Alto, CA

Hi, my name is Jessica. I’m originally from Madagascar and was raised in the Bay Area, fluent in both English and Malagasy. Caring for children has been a passion of mine for over a decade, and I have a strong background in child development. I’ve worked with children ages 1 to 14, helping them learn, grow, and have fun in a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment. I’m patient, reliable, and attentive to each child’s individual needs, and I enjoy being part of a family’s daily life helping with homework, activities, schedules, and even caring for pets. I have a clean driving record, am fully vaccinated, and can provide references, as well as my detailed nanny resume highlighting my previous experience. I would be honored to bring my experience, energy, and care to your family and help make your days a little easier while supporting your children’s growth and happiness.

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Recent babysitter activity in Palo Alto, CA

When it's urgent, trust comes first

All UrbanSitter babysitters are background checked every year. Profiles are individually reviewed by our Trust and Safety team.

photo of quoted parent Hillary

"We were incredibly grateful that Maya was able to help us out with a last-minute childcare emergency. She matched our 9-year-old's energy with arts & crafts, some quiet reading, and a walk around the neighborhood. We'd have Maya back in a heartbeat!"

Hillary S., parent

photo of quoted parent Theresa

"We used Tania for a last minute emergency. She responded very quickly. My daughter seemed to enjoy herself. My son napped most of the time. I enjoyed how she kept me updated by text."

Theresa M., parent

photo of quoted parent Lauren

"Hannah was awesome. Went above & beyond to help me with a last minute emergency. She was really sweet & great with my 16mo old. Highly recommend!!"

Lauren D., parent

Family with caregiver

Find emergency care in Palo Alto

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Why families trust UrbanSitter for emergency babysitting

Trusted by Palo Alto families

See which babysitters have been hired by parents in your Palo Alto neighborhood, school, or parenting group.

Fast responses for urgent needs

Average response times for last-minute requests are under two minutes in most areas.

Background checked, every year

Every babysitter completes an annual background check, offering peace of mind when you need it most.

Reviews from local parents

Read reviews from local families, see repeat family counts, and compare profiles before you choose.

Frequently asked questions about emergency babysitters in Palo Alto

How do I find an emergency babysitter in Palo Alto?

Sign up for an UrbanSitter account, then share the date, time, and number of children who need care. Available sitters in Palo Alto can respond, and you can review full profiles before booking.

How much does an emergency babysitter cost in Palo Alto?

Babysitting rates in Palo Alto vary by experience, number of children, and job length. For same-day care, offering a higher rate can help attract interest and a faster response. See average babysitting rates in your area.

Are babysitters in Palo Alto on UrbanSitter background checked?

Yes. Every babysitter on UrbanSitter completes an annual background check, including those in Palo Alto, and each profile is individually reviewed by our Trust and Safety team. See what's included in the background check.

Can I find a babysitter in Palo Alto for today or tonight?

Yes. Same-day and tonight requests are common on UrbanSitter. Share your care needs and available sitters can respond. You can read reviews, watch profile videos, and choose the right fit.

What's the best way to find a babysitter in Palo Alto on short notice?

On UrbanSitter, when an urgent need comes up, share your timing, location, and care needs so available sitters can respond. See tips for finding last-minute child care for additional ways to find support.

What do I do if my babysitter cancels in Palo Alto?

Sign into UrbanSitter and submit a new urgent request with your timing, location, and care needs. Available sitters can respond, and you can compare reviews, profile videos, and response times before choosing.

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