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Need a sitter? Raleigh service offers babysitter 'speed dating' Saturday

Parents can meet potential nannies and babysitters during Select Sitters's first Babysitter Speed Dating event on Saturday.

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Sarah Lindenfeld Hall

Parents can meet potential nannies and babysitters during Select Sitters's first Babysitter Speed Dating event on Saturday in north Raleigh.

Kara Varnell, owner of the local babysitting service, said this is the first of what she hopes will be many "speed dating" events that connect caregivers in her network with parents in the community.

Like most babysitting services, Select Sitters requires interviews and background checks for all caregiver candidates. Varnell also checks their references and requires CPR and first aid training.

"Even still, as a mom I know, it’s hard to leave your children with somebody you haven’t met," said Varnell, who has two kids of her own. "We want to provide that opportunity to meet some sitters so they feel a little bit more comfortable."

The first event is set for 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, at SnickerDoodles Play Cafe , 3721 Lynn Rd., in north Raleigh. Varnell hopes to offer one in Apex in the near future.

During the event, breakfast and childcare will be provided so parents can focus on getting to know the prospective sitters. SnickerDoodles is an indoor play place with activities designed for toddlers and preschoolers.

"We'll have a time limit based on the number of families attending," Varnell said. "They’ll have a certain number of minutes with each person and then families will rotate and sitters stay where they are" and meet the next family.

The event is free, but registration is required as there are space and time limits. Select Sitters' website has more information, including the registration form.

If slots do fill up, never fear.

Said Varnell: "We'll offer it again soon."

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