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.
Looking for jobs? Apply here.
Families in Palo Alto turn to UrbanSitter for emergency and same-day babysitting.
81 available today | Avg hourly rate: $31.34/hr
Every babysitter on UrbanSitter completes an annual background check, and every profile is individually reviewed by our Trust and Safety team. Learn more.
Hi! My name is Liana and I’m looking for one-time and occasional babysitting jobs. I’m a Physician Assistant student at Stanford University and am looking to make some extra money while I’m in school. I have always loved working with kids. I graduated with a B.S in Neuroscience from Santa Clara University and I hope to work in pediatrics as a PA. I have past experience as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), pediatric medical assistant, daycare volunteer, and math/reading tutor. I have my own car and am comfortable driving to/from activities. I enjoy reading, baking, spending time outside, watching tv/movies, and doing crafts!
Hi! I'm Lauren I'm a recent St. Mary's environmental science graduate with seven years of babysitting experience. I've worked as a nanny and taught at summer camps, and find nurturing children's social and emotional growth to be incredibly fulfilling. A few of my favorite activities are baking, reading, arts and crafts, and being outdoors. I have a car and a clean driving record.
Hi, my name is Jahaira. I am currently a preschool teacher in Palo Alto. I have been teaching there for over 9 years. I love working with children. I also enjoy helping around the house and be an extra set of hands in your household. I have worked with multiple families in the past, long and short term as a household assistant. I am looking for some weekends or weekday nights hours to help with taking care of your babies or helping around the house. I am very flexible and reliable.
“Jahaira was punctual and our kids loved her. ”
Hello! I’m Amina, and I have several years of babysitting experience with kids of all ages. As a caregiver, I would describe myself as nurturing, patient, and kind. Your child’s emotional and physical wellbeing are important to me! You can expect me to be fully engaged with your children. A few activities I might do with them (depending on their age and interests) are reading stories, doing crafts projects, playing board games, making friendship bracelets, or playing with outdoor chalk. My priority is to keep your children happy, healthy, and safe. If you choose to book with me, you can count on me to be dependable and attentive. Thanks for reading and please reach out if you have any questions!
“Amina was a fantastic sitter for my 2 boys. She was friendly, caring, compassionate and playful. Highly recommend!”
Hi, my name is Maddy. I am a recent SDSU graduate with a bachelors in kinesiology. My goal with my degree is to become an occupational therapist in the future. I offer pet care and household services. I am experienced with cats and dogs. I have grown up with cats my whole life and am capable of feeding, playing, and tending to cat litter. I have had a dog for the past seven years and am able to walk, feed, and play with them. I am comfortable with large animals and those that shed. I offer services in cleaning, cooking, laundry, errands, and organizing. I also enjoy baking and would be happy to make some sweet treats upon request of the family. A fun fact about me is I saw John Cena at the mall in San Diego one time.
“We hired Maddie for recurring visits for evening Household services, specifically helping us tidy up and reset for the next day (important with two young kids!). She was on time, committed, and receptive to changing priorities. We had her focus on the kitchen, laundry, play room, kids rooms, and kids bath tidying. It was a huge help and she did a great job!”
As of October 2026
All UrbanSitter babysitters are background checked every year. Profiles are individually reviewed by our Trust and Safety team.
1,276 sitters background checked in Palo Alto, CA
4.9 average star rating from total of 10,261 reviews in Palo Alto, CA
"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
"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
"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
Share your needs and hear from available sitters.
To sign up with Facebook, we need permission to use your email address.
Sharing your friends list is optional, and allows us to connect you with sitters they book and recommend. Nothing will be shared or posted.
Share your needs and hear from available sitters.
To sign up with Facebook, we need permission to use your email address.
Sharing your friends list is optional, and allows us to connect you with sitters they book and recommend. Nothing will be shared or posted.
See which babysitters have been hired by parents in your Palo Alto neighborhood, school, or parenting group.
Average response times for last-minute requests are under two minutes in most areas.
Every babysitter completes an annual background check, offering peace of mind when you need it most.
Read reviews from local families, see repeat family counts, and compare profiles before you choose.
Ideas for when there is an emergency and you need a sitter today.
A printable card to leave with your sitter in case of an emergency.
