Advice needed on how much to tip a babysitter - PLEASE!

[indimom]

I've been working in the child care field for about 13 years. Usually I receive the same types of gifts I give my kids' teachers - candles, gift cards, bath and body, etc... (Things in the $10-$20 range).
Last year, all the parents I provide care for got together and gifted me with several gift cards to Kohls, Target, a restaurant and movie theater. The gift (from 7 families) totalled about $150. While, this was still probably $25 per family, I felt very spoiled and was a little embarassed to be honest.
I think your ideas are just fine. (By the way, I use the same policy as your sitter, I do not charge when the children are not in my care, including teachers' kids who are out most of the summer. No need since I fill those spots with older siblings of the other families in my care. )

Merry Christmas!

 

[MickeyHereWeCome!]

I am a child care provider in MD, and have been for 12 years. I have read that week's pay thing many times, but it honestly doesn't happen in real life. The most I've ever gotten was a $75- $100 gift card, which was very generous. I think the main thing is just to show that you are thinking of her and appreciate what she does for your family. Most of my families give a $25 gift card, and maybe something else that is little. A hand written note of appreciation would make me smile. I really appreciate gifts I will get a lot of use out of. Target cards, movie baskets (one had a bag of chips, microwave popcorn, candy, nuts and a Blockbuster card...that was a hit), etc. are bigger hits than candles, mugs, and pretty things. As much as I appreciate the thought, I guess I just like things I'll actually use on a regular basis.

Again, anything will be appreciated! Don't feel pressured to give a lot if you are strapped this year. I think I would faint if I received one week's pay! It's the thought that counts, and I don't think a provider would expect a huge "bonus".

 

[Mom_Rides]

I've been home with my DD since I lost my job in July. Prior to that, we used a babysitter who watch Avery in her home. She is an older lady, very grandma-ish, and we loved her! She was a lot like your babysitter and did not charge us if we were there. She would always get Avery a little something (one year it was a babydoll, one year a My Little Pony) and would always give us a loaf of banana nut bread.

I have never heard of the one weeks pay before. We always gave Irene a $25 gift card to a restaurant. She always enjoyed it and would tell us when she used it. I would always round up her pay when I paid her through the year as well. Lets say that our bill was $57, I would just give her $60. I did that nearly everyweek.

Do whatever feels right for you. It will be appreciated!

 

[WantToGoNow]

I babysit for a little girl that just turned 2 years old. I also take her older sister to school 2-3 days a week (I have to drive 8 miles to the next town to their house on those days). When I was paid last week, I received an extra weeks' pay for Christmas.

 

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

I am a full time, live out, professional nanny. Yes, one - two weeks pay plus a small gift from the children is the standard for Christmas for nannies.

OP, give what you are comfortable with. Your sitter will appreciate it whether it is a week's salary or not.

 

[srgibbs]

I would give what you are comfortable with and don't break the bank. Just the fact that you have put thought and your own special touch into the gift is what matters. She will be thankful that you have remembered her.

 

[inkedupmomma]

My boss is giving me a Northface jacket this x-mas and cash or gift card (probably $50-$100). Last year she bought me uggs and gave me $100.00. I nanny for her full time and treat her child like my own. He has a stocking and all at my house.

With that said, it depends how close you are to her, and what you can afford. I would NEVER expect my boss to give what she gives me (although I am thrilled!). If I knew she was in tough times I would LOVE whatever she got me. Buying her anything that is just for her and her family is awesome and shows that you put thought into the gift, and after all that is what really counts, right?