Speaking of babysitters...

I'm going to be watching another resident's 5 month old son two to three days per week, starting in a few weeks. She's really happy she won't have to put him in daycare, and I'm really happy to have a bit of extra money. But the question is, how much is a fair amount for her to pay me? Neither one of us really have much of an idea how much sitters/nannies/daycare go for.

I'm so glad the forums are back up, I've been waiting to get more responses to this question!

I think it depends on what the going rate in the area is. Either that or I'd call a local daycare and ask how much they charge, and then charge $1-$2 more per hour since you're giving the child individual care and attention. My girlfriend babysits and charges $10/hr for 2-3 kids.

[Vanquisher]

For long term day care, my friends around here charge 25-30 per day. I think that is WAY too little, but then again, not a lot of people can afford to pay more than that right? And, hence, I stay home.

Of course, it will vary from area to area, depends on if they are infants, toddlers, or preschool age, etc.

[Ames]

I charge 12-14/hour depending on the family. My childcare center charges $50/day if you pick up an extra day. That is for my classroom which is the 4 and 5 year olds. I think 10/hour is fair.

Thanks. I'm definitely going to call a few day care places, but I didn't know if I should be paid less to save the parent money, or more like pitterpat said because (I like to think ) my home is better than a day care.