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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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309 available babysitters in Washington, DC

Families in Washington turn to UrbanSitter for emergency and same-day babysitting.
176 available today | Avg hourly rate: $23.34/hr

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

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Sivahle $25 per hour for 1 child

Nice to meet you! After receiving my Bachelor's in Psychology with a specialization in Child Development, I moved back to the DC area to be closer to family. Between my undergrad work programs and my current job, I've been working in a teaching capacity with children for about 6 years now. Currently, I'm employed full time as a associate teacher at a DC preschool. This experience provides me with lots of benefits that I then get to share with my babysitting families! Some of these benefits include child CPR certification, easy meal times (I've supported all sorts of kids with different dietary and motor needs), comfort with managing siblings, and a willingness to embrace the toughest bedtime routines. I look forward to working with your family!

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Ellen $20 per hour for 1 child

Hi there!! My name is Ellen, I am a Senior at Howard University in D.C. As a college student, I understand the in’s and outs of multitasking. I love to help out busy parents and make their lives easier. I come from a large family and am well acquainted with the aspects of babysitting as I have been sitting for a very long time. I have no problem helping out with meals/meal prep for the week, cleaning, running errands, planning activities for the kids, and getting them where they need to be for the day. I am very patient and always find fun things to do with the kids I babysit, while ensuring they feel safe and comfortable at all times. My main goal is to alleviate the stress of working parents whom already have a lot on their plates. I am willing to help with whatever needs need to be be met. See you soon!!

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Christopher $20 per hour for 1 child

I was a manny for three boys during COVID and the following two summers. I created a summer camp agenda that included daily activities such as swimming, arts and crafts, chess, sports games, and skill drills, as well as summer school work and brain games. During COVID, I also served as a tutor to assist children with their basic schoolwork. I am incredibly patient with kids and empathetic. The kid's happiness and safety is my number one priority. I will go above and beyond to make sure that all needs are met. I can do light cooking and clean up any messes we make. Have an excellent driving record in case of an emergency. I am very easy to reach and rarely miss phone calls or texts. I attended Harvard-Westlake and am currently attending University in Washington, DC.

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Lilith $17 per hour for 1 child

I would describe myself as an outgoing, energetic, responsible and overall patient individual. I enjoy working with children, as I believe they are our future! I also believe that working with children provides an opportunity to discover a new purpose everyday! While nothing is going to come easy, the gratification I feel breaking through to a child and seeing their face light up with that “ah ha” moment is worth it. I have been working with children for the majority of my life. As of right now, I work for a caregiving service that specializes in the care of children with special needs, called Cambrian Homecare, and have been here for about 3 years. If you allow me the chance to work with your kids, you have my word that I will keep them safe! As well as treating them with respect and care.

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Courtney $20 per hour for 1 child

Every summer in high school I was a camp counselor for roughly six weeks, working with ages 4-10. I also frequently babysat during high school, usually ages 7-10. I am currently on my fourth season as a Girls on the Run coach for ages 8-10. I really enjoy spending time kids. I have always had a dog and typically take care of my dog when my parents are away. I am a responsible person and understand the effort required to take care of people (fur people include) and genuinely enjoy doing that!

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

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $23.34
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $28.01
  • Typical job length: 4.8 hours
  • Most requested times: Morning

As of November 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.

1,347 sitters background checked in Washington, DC

4.9 average star rating from total of 5,930 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 November 2026, babysitting rates in Washington average $23.34 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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