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Find an emergency babysitter in Washington, DC

Washington 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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308 available babysitters in Washington, DC

Families in Washington turn to UrbanSitter for emergency and same-day babysitting.
191 available today | Avg hourly rate: $23.33/hr

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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Abby
Booked by 1 repeat family
1 review
$20 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Washington, DC

Hello! My name is Abby, I’m 27 years old and I have lived in DC for the last 5 years! I moved here from Wisconsin in 2020 to earn my Master’s in Political Science at American University which I got in 2022, and currently work at the Administration for Children and Families at HHS. I’ve been at HHS for the last 3 years, and previously worked on the Hill and in campaigns. I have experience watching children from infancy to pre-teens, and love working with all age groups! Additionally, I have a bachelor’s in psychology with a focus in child/adolescent and social psychology, and worked full time in a daycare while in college with toddlers-school aged children. I am a pet lover, and have a dog of my own! I have access to a car, and a clean driving record. I love to cook, read, play games and craft, and will do all the above with your children so they have fun and are stimulated! I always follow parental guidance on screens and technology, and am more than happy to keep your kids off them and keep them entertained through play and creativity! As I do work a full time job, I am mostly available on weekends and the occasional weeknight evening after 6:30pm.

“Abby was great! My kids gave rave reviews. She was communicative, punctual, and very sweet. We will definitely use her again. ”

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Viviana 2 reviews
$25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 5 families in Washington, DC

Hello dear family! My name is Viviana, I am 27 years old and I am from Colombia. I am an experienced nanny with over 10 years of experience with children of all ages (from infants to teenagers). I am a responsible, creative, honest and communicative person, I love doing crafts, painting, dancing, swimming and doing things outside, also I like to do different activities depending on the kids' ages and the weather. I am pet-friendly (especially dogs) I have swimming certification by the Colombian red cross, CPR and first Aid as well. I have been driving in the USA since 2018 and I have my own transportation. Fully vaccinated. With all my skills and experience, I'm able to provide a supervised, safe, and stable environment for your little ones. Looking forward to hear from you.

“Looked after my 2yo daughter last minute. My daughter was happy to play with her!”

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Dana 1 review
$20 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Washington, DC

My name is Dana and I’m a college freshman at Marist University! I’ve lived in Columbia heights my whole and know the area like the back of my hand. Nurturing young minds is truly my passion. With about four years of experience caring for children aged 0-4, I bring a friendly and enthusiastic approach to every interaction. I'm dedicated to fostering a positive environment where children can learn and grow. I enjoy playing outdoor sports, board games, and even some educational technology-based games. I am comfortable caring for up to four children at a time. I have a car, am comfortable with pets, and am fluent in both English and Spanish. I have my babysitting certificate from the American Red Cross. I am also trained in CPR and First Aid. I would love to bring my energy and experience to your family and create happy memories for your children.

“Dana arrived right on time and was very personable. She was prepared, even bringing along some books for the kids to read. My son (2) was very upset when we left but she was able to calm him down quickly after we left. My daughter had a lot of fun and is already asking when she can come back!”

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Ebony 2 reviews
$20 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 3 families in Washington, DC

Hi there! My name is Ebony, and I'm a newsletter editor/freelance writer. In my spare time, you'll find me at a museum or and reading in a park, weather permitting. I've worked with kids for over 10 years as a camp counselor, reading tutor, babysitter, and ESOL instructor. As a former improv performer, I'm always up for playing make-believe, singing and dancing! My experience is mostly with toddlers and school-aged children, but I have worked with infants as well. I'm very comfortable with animals, and have actually pet sit all over the country (via Trusted Housesitters). My schedule varies, but I am typically available for weekend/date-night care. I'd love to build a bond with a family and become their regular sitter. Thank you for your time and consideration!

“Ebony was very friendly and punctual We would definitely have her sit again”

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Amailee $17 per hour for 1 child

Pre-med Psych student at Howard U, CCMA certified, CPR trained. Natural with kid, patient, fun, responsible. Experience with infants through teens. I grew up with 3 younger brothers! Honor student & background check ready. LINKEDIN RESUME: [removed]

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How much does an emergency babysitter cost in Washington, DC?

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $23.33
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $28.01
  • Typical job length: 4.8 hours
  • Most requested times: Evening

As of October 2026

Recent babysitter activity in Washington, DC

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.

1,342 sitters background checked in Washington, DC

4.9 average star rating from total of 5,705 reviews in Washington, DC

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 Washington

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Why families trust UrbanSitter for emergency babysitting

Trusted by Washington families

See which babysitters have been hired by parents in your Washington 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 Washington

How do I find an emergency babysitter in Washington?

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

How much does an emergency babysitter cost in Washington?

As of October 2026, babysitting rates in Washington average $23.33 per hour for one child, and 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 Washington on UrbanSitter background checked?

Yes. Every babysitter on UrbanSitter completes an annual background check, including those in Washington, 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 Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington?

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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