Updated June 08, 2015.

Needing a night out and a way from your baby, but frustrated with either the cost or availability of babysitters? Considering joining a childcare cooperative in order to have flexible, free babysitting services.

How Free Babysitting Works Out

A babysitting cooperative is a group of families who unite together to exchange babysitting services. Rather than using money to pay for services, parents simply swap tokens to charge and pay for sitting services.

How to Locate a Child Care Coop

The simplest way to find a babysitting coop is to ask other parents for information. Ask around at local playgroups, strike up a conversation with the mom at the park, or ask your coworkers or friends.

Your pediatrician may also be a helpful resource, or peruse any local parenting magazines for advertisements.

Organize Your Own Cooperative

If all else fails, considering organizing your own babysitting cooperative. Successful coops have been run with as few as two families and upwards of 50. Chat with other parents that you know. More than likely, you'll find many other families very interested in exchanging babysitting services.