I don't know what to pay a babysitter when we go out for a night. We have 3 children ages 2, 3 1/2, & 5 1/2. I thought $3 per kid would be okay, so I just rounded it up to $10 per hour. The other night my husband and I went out and was gone for 6 hours = $60!!!! And that's on top of what we spent to go to dinner and a cheep movie--we just can't afford that.
I know that when you are entrusting your children to another person, you can't put a dollar amount on what their care is worth but $60 seems like a lot. I only have 1 child, but I don't beleive I've ever given a sitter over $30 for one night & that was actually for New Years Eve. I'll be interested to see what the other moms have to say!
There are a few things I consider when paying a sitter. First, if they are driving and using their gas or just walking down the street. Second, the ages of my kids. I have 2 girls ages 3 & 4-1/2 and they need lots of help and hands on making it harder for the sitter. Third, is the time of day I have a sitter here. If she is expected to feed, bath, etc....she gets more. Regardless of all the above, they only get $6-$8 per hour. I also give a "bonus" if I come home to a clean house:)
HI! I believe $10/hr is VERY GENEROUS. We have 5 kids, ages 7 & under (twins included) & we paid/pay 2 kids: $5/hr; 3 kids $7/hr, and 5 kids $10/hr. I work part time in a "nursery" and we only make minimum wage which is $7/hr. Unfortunately, most facilities which work with childcare pay minimum wage or a little more. Good luck and God Bless.
