Temporary Babysitter for 2 days, how much?

Question

Hubby was laid off earlier this year and wasn't able to obtain a job until now. It may be a temporary job but it will last at least until the end of the year. It's better then nothing since he's had no luck elsewhere. While I went back to work he was caring for our newborn. Now that he is working we have asked a distant relative to care for her from 6:30am-2:30pm since I am off work at 1:30pm. She is a few years older than I am and has 2 daughters so she is familiar with caring for a girl. She mentioned that I don't need to pay her but it wouldn't feel right. It will be for only 2 days out of the week, my hubby suggested we should start giving her $35 for now, and more once we are better adjusted. My daughter is now 5 months and she is a very easy baby. I thought $50 would be ideal but I don't know... she is family and I don't want to take advantage of that. How much would you give a family member to babysit for 2 days?

Meghan · Accepted Answer

Your relative has volunteered out of the kindness of her heart to watch your precious daughter so you and your husband can get back on track.  While anything would be greatly appreciated, I don't know if it would be accepted.

The idea of trading some sort of service of yours for hers is a great one.  Trade for babysitting, mowing her lawn, or some other service you can provide for her.  If she refuses to accept payment, maybe put that money away to save for a large gift for her.  Something like a spa day on saturday where you can watch her kids while she gets pampered.

Just the fact that you are thinking about what you can do to not take advantage of her graciousness shows her alot.  Make her aware you appreciate her, and don't abuse it.  And of course, when she needs something, be there for her.

Treebeard · Answer

I think that your relative is trying to help you out and you should accept her offer. Instead of paying her, why not offer to babysit for her a couple of times? Perhaps a couple of weekends you can take her kids off her back and she can have some free time? If you can't do that, a gift card is always nice, just as a thank you.

Michelle · Answer

Definitely pay her. She may resent you down the road if you don't. Since it's a relative don't be too cheap. Because....again she may resent you down the road if you're cheap. I have know idea how much you should pay her because I don't know what state you live in. I live in California. If it was in California I would lean more towards $50 dollars a day.

who-wants-to-know · Answer

I think $50/week would be good.  And consider yourself lucky you have someone so generous in your life.  Most babysitters charge $8-10/hr.

Sara B · Answer

I was also thinking $50 would be a good amount. That is still a really good price considering what daycares charge.

1982 · Answer

$50 seems fair. So long as you provide all her food, diapers, formula, all that kind of stuff.

Thomas Milian · Answer

sei una bella T.O.P.A

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Temporary Babysitter for 2 days, how much?

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