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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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18 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.
19 available today | Avg hourly rate: $22.80/hr

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

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Jordan 1 review
$27 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Columbia, MD

I am an early childhood education trained teacher. I am currently a kindergarten teacher but have taught pre k through second grade. I am willing to pick up and drop kids off as needed! I can bring lots of fun games, crafts, and movies for kids to do while in my care.

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Diana 1 review
$19 per hour for 1 child

Hi, I’m Diana! I’m a full-time college student that is home for the summer. I have experience working with elementary-aged kids through tutoring and after-school care, and I’ve also babysat my younger siblings and cousins. I’m am comfortable with diaper changes, meal prep, light laundry, and helping kids with homework and crafts. I always strive to create a warm, safe, and engaging environment where kids feel supported and parents can feel confident and at ease.

“Compassionate and Dutiful. Strongly recommend her with enthusiasm.”

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Gretchen
Booked by 1 repeat family
1 review
$20 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Columbia, MD

As a mother of two grown children and a delighted grandmother, I have a wealth of experience with kids of all ages, from tiny newborns to energetic school-aged kids. I've also had the pleasure of looking after my sister's four little ones when they were babies (they're all grown up now) and caring for my great-nieces and nephews. Caring for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children truly brings me joy. I love taking them on adventures to parks, museums, the zoo, and other safe, fun places. Some of my favorite activities include reading stories, playing board games, doing arts and crafts, and engaging in educational games. You can trust me to keep your child(ren) safe, happy, and entertained. I'm a warm-hearted person who will treat your kids with the same love and care as my own.

“We absolutely love having her as our babysitter! From the moment she arrives, she brings such a warm, caring presence that makes our child feel safe, happy, and excited to spend time with her. She is incredibly affectionate and nurturing, always ready with a comforting hug and so much patience. One of our favorite things is how much she loves reading. She spends quality time sharing books with our child. It's clear she genuinely enjoys engaging with children in meaningful ways. She is also exceptionally reliable and dependable. We always know we can count on her to be on time, communicate well, and provide excellent care. Her behavior management skills are outstanding—she sets clear, kind boundaries and handles challenging moments with calm confidence and consistency.”

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Teresa 2 reviews
$16 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 2 families in Columbia, MD

Hi! My name is Teresa. I'm from Baltimore county (Halethorpe). I'm known for my patience, creativity, and friendly demeanor, which allows me to connect with children of all ages. I love utilizing board games and doing fun crafts. With about 6 years of experience working with kids, I'm comfortable caring for up to three children. I'm very comfortable enforcing household rules while maintaining a nurturing environment. I'm First Aid and CPR trained and have completed come coursework on Child Development as well. I am also currently a Teacher Assistant at BCPS, currently working with Kindergarten. As for pet care, I have plenty of experience pet sitting my family's doggo's/ kitties, as well as professional sitting/ boarding. I look forward to the opportunity of meeting you and your family!

“Teresa is lovely. Very friendly and professional. My son loved her.”

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Christina
Booked by 3 repeat families
3 reviews
$24 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 4 families in Columbia, MD

I'm a current master's student studying medical sciences with plans to attend medical school next year. I've always loved working with kids and have several years of experience caring for and engaging with children of all ages. I've led youth ministry at my church, working with toddlers through preteens. This included creating fun and meaningful lessons, supervising during services, and supporting families. My relationships with families in the church have also led to trusted babysitting opportunities. Outside of church, I've volunteered with the Boys and Girls Club, primarily supporting elementary-aged children with science-related activities and after-school care. I come from a large extended family and as the eldest, l've naturally taken on the role of caregiver by providing safe, fun, and nurturing environments for younger family members. I'm known for being patient, dependable, and easy to talk to, and I genuinely enjoy building strong, positive connections with kids and their families.

“Very nice and professional. Arrived on time. Would definitely book her again.”

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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: $27.46
  • Typical job length: 4.9 hours
  • Most requested times: Evening

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.

919 sitters background checked in Columbia, MD

4.9 average star rating from total of 3,468 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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