A better way to find your next babysitter in NYC
Join Forwhen to connect with trusted sitters across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. For when you need to do, well, anything else.
What makes us different
Built for NYC parents and sitters by a NYC mom and sitter
Expertly vetted care
We do the heavy lifting with interviews, background checks, and reference checks.
Play with purpose
Our sitters prioritize play and limited screen time. They engage with your kids, not a phone.
Easy as texting
We manage booking and matching all through SMS.
For whenever you need us
Date nights
Go to that restaurant you've been meaning to try—the one with no room for strollers.
Out of towners
Just in NYC for a bit? We'll have a local sitter show your kids around and make you all feel at home.
Last-minute emergencies
Your primary caregiver is sick. Daycare is closed for a mystery holiday. You, however, still have a big meeting today.
Afternoon pickups
Fill the gaps between the end of your little one's day and the end of your day.
How it works
Tell us about your family
Share your family's needs and anything specific you're looking for in your sitter
Text to book
Message when you need care, and we'll select sitters that are available when you need them.
Enjoy peace of mind
After confirming with your sitter, you're all set. We send reminders and resources so you can focus on anything else.
What families are saying
Heather
Mom to 5 and 3 year old
“I don't know what I'd do without Forwhen! My kids aren't comfortable with just anyone, but we've been matched with experienced and fun sitters who they truly look forward to seeing. Plus, knowing they're in good hands makes a night away that much easier.”
Christine
Mom to 4 and 3 year old
“I was eager to start getting out again but struggled to find a trustworthy sitter. Discovering Forwhen has been an absolute godsend. Every sitter they've sent has been fantastic, and their communication is top-notch. I can't recommend them highly enough!”
Hallie
Mom to 14 month old
“My family visited NY from the west coast and booked two sitters through the service—both were communicative, punctual, and so sweet with our son. I appreciated that they were background and reference checked, so I didn't have any concerns as we were out on the town.”
About our sitters
Our sitters are thoroughly vetted and range from full-time childcare providers to students to working professionals, all with years of experience working with kids. We prioritize ensuring sitters are paid fair wages and don't take any fees out of their pay. Sign up now to view all of our caring and talented sitters.
Sarah L.
Park Slope, Brooklyn
Sarah has worked as a babysitter and tutor and has a degree in education. She's taught in NYC and Taiwan and once coached a middle school lacrosse team in Harlem.
Eliza B.
Park Slope, Brooklyn
Eliza is a pediatric occupational therapist and has worked as a camp counselor and nanny. You can find her during basketball season cheering on the New York Liberty.
Paula A.
Clinton Hill, Brooklyn
Paula is a painting student, speaks fluent Spanish, and has been babysitting for seven years. Favorite hobby? Playing guitar.
Anna C.
Fort Greene, Brooklyn
Anna is in graduate school studying social work and loves working with kids. Her ideal weekend involves going to the farmers market and walking through Fort Greene Park with her dog, Joni. Fun fact: she's a twin!
Meet the founder
👋 Hi, I'm Ellie. I'm a new mom to a baby girl and I started Forwhen after my own experience as a NYC babysitter and a start-up veteran. I knew there had to be a better way to find work as a sitter and to for parents to get a few hours to themselves.
I'm passionate about making connections between your family and the sitters on our platform who love nothing more than caring for your little ones and giving you a breather.
Have any questions before you sign up? Text me at (347) 644-2924 or find time on my Calendly to connect.
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