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Find a last-minute babysitter in San Mateo, CA

Need a sitter on short notice? San Mateo families find trusted, background checked babysitters on UrbanSitter.

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110 available last-minute babysitters in San Mateo, CA

Families in San Mateo use UrbanSitter for last-minute date nights, schedule changes, backup care, and same-day babysitter needs.
104 available today | Avg hourly rate: $31.23/hr

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

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Valerie
Booked by 21 repeat families
27 reviews
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 37 families in San Mateo, CA

Hello! I graduated from San Francisco State University with a BA in Child and Adolescent Development. I have my Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education, which adds to my knowledge of children. I currently work for a public school district where I work with children that have special needs. Prior to that, I was a teacher at a private school. I have worked with a variety of ages, but primarily with 3-4 year olds for 5 years. I have worked as a nanny for two children for 5 years, while also babysitting for many years before this. When babysitting, I primarily have worked with school aged children, K-6th grade. I have had some experience with infant children under the age of 1 for about four years. I hope that I can be of assistance to you and your family. Thank you!

“Valerie was terrific with my girls. Will definitely use her again”

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Eileen
Booked by 34 repeat families
54 reviews
$37 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 87 families in San Mateo, CA

Hi! My name is Eileen. With 15 years of experience working with children aged 3 months to 14 years;—I take pride in creating a safe, nurturing, and fun environment where children can thrive. Whether engaging in creative play, helping with homework, or supporting developmental milestones, I enjoy and take pride in contributing to each child’s overall enrichment and well-being. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Human Health and Disease from USC, providing me with a solid understanding of child development, health, and safety. I’m also CPR certified, ensuring I am well-prepared to handle any situation with care and professionalism. If you’re looking for a dependable, energetic nanny who values creativity, education, and fostering meaningful connections, I’d be glad to support your family in helping provide a happy, enriching environment for your children!

“Eileen has been looking after my 10 month old daughter and 3 year old son. She is a kind and warm soul who treats toddlers and infants with grace and respect. She is quick to bond and laugh with the kids but she can also be firm when the situation (tantruming toddler) requires it. She is creative and imaginative, loves to do arts and crafts, spend time outdoors, read stories or talk about the kids' favorite subject for hours. She is reliable, always on time, and all in all a joy to work with. She respects the personal space of our family and adjusts to our work and personal life routine seamlessly. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone. Thank you Eileen.”

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viviana
Booked by 13 repeat families
22 reviews
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 28 families in San Mateo, CA

Hello families! I’m a responsible, kind, and patient person who truly enjoys caring for children with love and respect. With my background as a healthcare professional, I’ve had the privilege of working with children, families, and seniors, which has made me more empathetic, humble, and attentive to people’s needs. I’m friendly, adaptable, and happy to collaborate with household tasks, always bringing a positive attitude. Every day I strive to keep growing personally and professionally, and I’d be honored to bring that same dedication and warmth to your family.

“Viviana was so wonderful!! My son who usually cries when babysitter arrives was all smiles and felt so comfortable! ”

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Vanessa
Booked by 47 repeat families
42 reviews
$33 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 78 families in San Mateo, CA

Hi, my name is Vanessa. I am a full-time middle school teacher and I have baby-sat and nannied part-time over the last 20+years. I am CPR certified and registered with Trustline. I have worked in child care centers and preschools while employed with Child Care Careers. I was repeatedly asked to substitute at PalCare in Burlingame because I know how to care for and work with infants and toddlers. For a few months, I taught a Spanish class to Pre-K students for the Casita de Los Ninos program located at Village Park Preschool, Burlingame. From 2012 to 2013 I tutored 3rd and 4th grade students in reading with the program Reading Partners at Park Elementary School in San Mateo. In 2010 I received my B.A. in Liberal Studies and Spanish at Sonoma State University. I love working with children so much that I pursued my teaching credential at San Francisco State University and am currently teaching at Burlingame Intermediate School. I feel that children need to be engaged with art, language, math, science, and play! I'm a big fan of imaginative play, story time, drawing, play dough, and board games. If you're looking for a sitter who will do a lot more than put on a movie for your children, you've come to the right profile! :)

“Vanessa came on time. We did a short video call to introduce her to my kids before the date. She was very nice and patient to kids and very well comunnicated with us about details when we were away from home. Would recommend her if you ever need a babysitter.”

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Mercedes
Booked by 11 repeat families
21 reviews
$40 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 31 families in San Mateo, CA

-Not currently taking jobs unless occasional or one-time care- Hello, I’m Mercedes! It’s a pleasure to connect with you. I was born and raised in Oakland, CA, and I’m Montessori trained for ages 0–6, including Early Childhood Education. I work part-time in a childcare environment, and the rest of my time is spent developing curriculum for children across different counties in California. I’m comfortable working with a wide range of age groups. Part of what makes me effective in my curriculum work is the hands-on experience I gain by spending time with children in both 1:1 and group settings, including preschool. I focus on creating a positive, supportive environment through meaningful activities — arts and crafts, outdoor play, books, and creative projects. I pride myself on being reliable and fully present with every child I care for, approaching each task with enthusiasm and dedication. I’m also fully CPR/First Aid certified and prioritize health and safety in every aspect of my work. Thank you for taking the time to learn a bit about me — I look forward to the possibility of working with your family! Feel free to reach out with any questions. Have a wonderful day! -Just so you know, I bill for the full booking time in the app, even if we wrap up early-

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How much does a last-minute babysitter cost in San Mateo, CA?

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $31.23
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $37.10
  • Typical job length: 4.8 hours
  • Most requested times: Morning

As of October 2026

Recent babysitter activity in San Mateo, CA

Trust matters, especially on short notice

Babysitters on UrbanSitter are background checked every year, with every profile individually reviewed by our Trust and Safety team.

2,378 sitters background checked in San Mateo, CA

5.0 average star rating from total of 28,371 reviews in San Mateo, CA

photo of quoted parent Marie

"Amina came and helped us out when our babysitter canceled last minute. She was great with our kids. Even our 11 month old son who has stranger anxiety warmed up to her."

Marie C., parent

photo of quoted parent Jenny

"She was so flexible and came last minute to help out. The house was really neat when I got home and both kids were asleep. Two thumbs up!"

Jenny S., parent

photo of quoted parent Jesse

"Thrisa was amazing! Came over last minute and took amazing care of our 11 month old - including bedtime - she's coming back tomorrow :)"

Jesse D., parent

Family with caregiver

Find a last-minute babysitter in San Mateo

Submit a request to hear from available sitters.

Why San Mateo families choose UrbanSitter for last-minute child care

Quick responses when plans change

In most cities, average response time for last-minute requests is under two minutes.

Recommended by San Mateo families

See which babysitters have been hired by parents at your child's school, preschool, or neighborhood in San Mateo.

Background checked, every year

Every babysitter clears an annual background check, offering peace of mind even on short notice.

Read reviews, then decide

See parent reviews, repeat families, and average response times to find the right fit fast.

Frequently asked questions about finding a last-minute babysitter in San Mateo

How do I find a last-minute babysitter in San Mateo?

Sign up on UrbanSitter, enter your zip code, and submit a request with your timing and care needs. Babysitters near San Mateo who are available can respond to your request. Before choosing, you can view profiles, parent reviews, and shared connections.

How much does a last-minute babysitter cost in San Mateo?

As of October 2026, the average babysitting rate in San Mateo is $31.23 per hour for one child. Rates vary by experience, number of children, and time of day. See babysitting rates in San Mateo.

Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?

Yes. Every babysitter on UrbanSitter completes an annual background check. You can also read reviews from San Mateo families and see shared connections before you book. See what's included in the background check.

Can I find a same-day babysitter in San Mateo?

Same-day requests are common on UrbanSitter. Submit a request with your timing and care needs, and available sitters in San Mateo can respond. In most cities, the average response time for urgent requests is under two minutes.

Should I pay more for a last-minute babysitter?

Some parents offer a slightly higher rate for last-minute or same-day requests, but it is not required. On UrbanSitter, rates are set by individual babysitters. You can see each babysitter's hourly rate on their profile before you book.

What if I need a babysitter last minute today?

To find a last-minute babysitter today, share your timing and care needs on UrbanSitter. Available babysitters in San Mateo can respond, and you can review profiles before choosing.

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