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Find a last-minute babysitter in Columbia, MD

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

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19 available last-minute babysitters in Columbia, MD

Families in Columbia use UrbanSitter for last-minute date nights, schedule changes, backup care, and same-day babysitter needs.
22 available today | Avg hourly rate: $22.80/hr

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

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Carolina
Booked by 3 repeat families
4 reviews
$28 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 4 families in Columbia, MD

Hi! My name is Carolina, and I’m an experienced nanny and babysitter with over 10 years of childcare experience supporting children and families. I’m a master’s-level therapist currently awaiting graduate licensure, and I bring a calm, thoughtful, and nurturing approach to childcare. I have experience caring for children of all ages, including infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children. I’m skilled in creating structured routines, supporting children’s emotional needs, and engaging them in fun, age-appropriate activities. I value open and respectful communication with parents and strive to create a safe, supportive, and positive environment for every child in my care. 🎓 Education: Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling ❤️ Certifications: CPR & First Aid certified I’m available for part-time, temporary, or short-term care and am willing to travel up to 15 miles within Baltimore County and nearby areas of Howard County. References are available upon request. I look forward to connecting with your family!

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Adetola
Booked by 1 repeat family
1 review
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Columbia, MD

I have loved caring for children for as long as I can remember, and with over 15 years of experience, supporting and nurturing kids has become a true passion of mine. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Public Health and have worked in a variety of healthcare settings, which has strengthened my ability to provide safe, attentive, and compassionate care. I am CPR and First Aid certified, as well as a Certified Medication Technician (CMT), giving families added confidence in my skills and reliability. I am dedicated to creating a positive, engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and feel supported. While I plan to further my education in the future, I am currently focused on doing what I love most working closely with children and being a dependable, caring presence in their lives.

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Ainsley $18 per hour for 1 child

Hi there! I recently moved here from Kansas City in January and will be interning at Bethesda Elementary to complete my graduate hours in Speech-Language Pathology. I have experience with infants 5 months to children 12 years of age. I worked for the University daycare for 3 years at the University of Central Missouri. I have references I can provide where I have taken families to play places, the park, and various appointments. I also enjoy arts and crafts, riding bikes, or watching a movie at the end of the night. I can’t wait to offer babysitting services. Feel free to reach me via text at[removed] 🥰

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Kelsey $22 per hour for 1 child

Bringing eight years of experience working with children aged newborn to 11, I'm eager to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment for your little ones. My background includes a college degree, coursework in Early Child Development, and experience as a Certified Teacher. I'm also certified in CPR and First Aid. I'm comfortable caring for up to three children. I enjoy playing outdoor sports, board games, and educational games. I am patient, creative, and friendly. I'm also comfortable enforcing household rules. I will communicate with you daily, providing updates via text or phone and in person at pickup. Motivated by my positive experiences babysitting and a desire to support families, I'm happy to help with cooking and meal preparation. I look forward to the opportunity to bring my passion for childcare to your family and create a fun and safe space for your children to grow and learn.

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Nina $20 per hour for 1 child

Hi mom/dad! A little about me: I've been a caretaker for my younger brother for his whole life pretty much haha along with extended family members' children. I have experience taking care of children aged 0-13 for over. As for pets, I owned a few German shepherds growing up and loved and cared for them deeply, also fostered a bichon frise for a few months in 2022 and it was some of the best few months of my life! Adore animals with all my heart, especially dogs! Did not grow up with cats, but I do not shy away from giving them cuddles when given the chance. Love bunnies too! I'm also a rising junior in college working on personal projects and classes along with some free time on my hands, so availability for babysitting is fairly flexible during the week. A few hobbies of mine: going on road trips either with friends, trying out new places to eat, and thrifting. I'm always available for a video call so we can get to know each other and see whether we are a good fit for each other!

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How much does a last-minute babysitter cost in Columbia, MD?

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $22.80
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $27.47
  • Typical job length: 4.9 hours
  • Most requested times: Morning

As of October 2026

Recent babysitter activity in Columbia, MD

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.

934 sitters background checked in Columbia, MD

4.9 average star rating from total of 3,491 reviews in Columbia, MD

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 Columbia

Submit a request to hear from available sitters.

Why Columbia 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 Columbia families

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

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 Columbia

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

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

As of October 2026, the average babysitting rate in Columbia is $22.80 per hour for one child. Rates vary by experience, number of children, and time of day. See babysitting rates in Columbia.

Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?

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

Can I find a same-day babysitter in Columbia?

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

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