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Find a last-minute babysitter in Essex, MA

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

Looking for jobs? Apply here.

34 available last-minute babysitters in Essex, MA

Families in Essex use UrbanSitter for last-minute date nights, schedule changes, backup care, and same-day babysitter needs.
Avg hourly rate: $25.07/hr

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

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Alex $25 per hour for 1 child

Kids are fantastic to work with. They have fantastic imaginations and a beautiful enthusiasm for so many parts of life. I love having the chance to hear about their favorite cartoon, sing along to their favorite Disney songs, and see the amazing ideas they come up with. I'm happy to play with kids, but I also take it seriously when there are rules they need to follow. Eating healthy snacks. Brushing their teeth. Going to bed. Those rules may not be things kids always want to do, but don't worry. I'll follow your schedule to a T. After all, kids also need the structure (and clean teeth) that come with less-fun habits. I am also experienced and capable at providing support for seniors, pets, or with numerous household tasks. I follow schedules well, pay attention to my charge's needs, and keep an eye on all the important details in my work. For seniors that means listening and treating them with respect. For pets it's paying attention for any mischief while caring for them. And for household chores, I just take pride in making sure I leave my workplace properly cleaned and organized. Whatever it is you need, I'm glad to help!

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Paige $25 per hour for 1 child

Hello! My name is Paige and I have spent the last seven years dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of the children I care for. My experience has shaped me into a patient, creative, and approachable caregiver who is comfortable managing the needs of up to four children, ranging from infants to pre-teens. I hold a college degree and maintain current CPR Training and First Aid Training. I am happy to assist with meal preparation, carpooling, and light housekeeping while following your preferred communication method for daily updates. I am very comfortable enforcing your household rules to ensure a consistent environment. I truly look forward to becoming a supportive part of your family's daily life.

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Katie $30 per hour for 1 child

I’m a registered nurse with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing and years of experience caring for children and families. In addition to my nursing background, I have several years of babysitting experience with multiple families, caring for children of different ages and personalities. I’m CPR certified and am responsible, patient, attentive, dependable, and calm in unexpected situations. My nursing experience has taught me to pay close attention to detail and prioritize safety while still making sure kids have fun and feel comfortable. I’m happy to help with meals, homework, bedtime routines, activities, errands, and light household tasks. I’m warm, energetic, trustworthy, and easygoing, and I genuinely love spending time with kids. I’m also a huge animal lover and am comfortable caring for pets, including feeding, walks, and general care. Overall, I’m someone families can feel comfortable trusting in their home, and I always strive to provide the same level of care and attention that I would want for my own family.

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Paola $25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 2 families in Essex, MA

Hi! My name is Paola and I’m a recent Master’s graduate beginning my career as a pediatric psychotherapist while working toward independent licensure. I have a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine. I have over 5 years of experience working with children of all ages. I’ve been babysitting since I was a teenager, worked as a preschool teacher during summers in undergrad, and currently work as a pediatric psychotherapist with kids ages 2-18. I especially love working with younger children and have a strong interest in early childhood development. I’m originally from Puerto Rico and am bilingual in English and Spanish. I enjoy engaging kids through play, crafts, reading, and other creative activities, and I strive to create a warm and supportive environment.

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How much does a last-minute babysitter cost in Essex, MA?

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $25.07
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $30.40
  • Typical job length: 4.1 hours
  • Most requested times: Afternoon

As of October 2026

Recent babysitter activity in Essex, MA

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.

115 sitters background checked in Essex, MA

4.9 average star rating from total of 380 reviews in Essex, MA

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 Essex

Submit a request to hear from available sitters.

Why Essex 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 Essex families

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

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 Essex

How do I find a last-minute babysitter in Essex?

Sign up on UrbanSitter, enter your zip code, and submit a request with your timing and care needs. Babysitters near Essex 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 Essex?

As of October 2026, the average babysitting rate in Essex is $25.07 per hour for one child. Rates vary by experience, number of children, and time of day. See babysitting rates in Essex.

Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?

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

Can I find a same-day babysitter in Essex?

Same-day requests are common on UrbanSitter. Submit a request with your timing and care needs, and available sitters in Essex 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 Essex can respond, and you can review profiles before choosing.

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