$ for teenage babysitter

[cgcw]

We needed a quick babysitter last night for DS2 and DS8 with absolutely no notice (FIL had another stroke). We called the neighbor asking if their older daughter was available and she wasn't. They offered their younger daughter - whose 13. My children have known this girl all of their lives, we have been friendly with the neighbors for several years and at one time I took care of this little girl. We were comfortable with her caring for our kids - especially since Mom and Dad were home.

The neighbor girl stayed with the kids for 3 hours. Both kids were ready for bed when we got home - in fact, she had both of them in bed just not asleep. Here's my dilemma.....what do I pay her? Normally, I'd give her $15 but I don't know if I should give her more because she literally dropped everything to come over. What would you do? What do you normally pay a babysitter?

Thanks for any help.

Cindy

 

[worm761]

i would tend to pay her more because she dropped everything to come over.

 

[Ranatra]

I agree. I'd pay her more.

 

[rbuzzotta]

I'd let her no how greatful you are that she dropped everything to come over and sit with your children. You can't find many young kids like that nowadays!! I'd give her a little something extra.

 

[addicted_to_WDW]

You gotta make the girl happy...give her a little extra. I have a horrible time finding sitters in my area (Washington, DC) and no one sits for less than $10 per hour.

 

[4greatboys]

I pay my 15 yr old $5 per hour to watch the 3 yr old when I need a babysitter. My best friend also uses him and pays him $5 per hour also and then usually gives him a tip.

 

[wovenwonder]

I agree with extra BUT be careful how you handle it. You don't want her to be disappointed if the rate isn't quite as high next time you ask her to sit. Maybe give her $15 and then hand her a $10 and tell her this is a little something extra since she was kind enough to help you out last minute.

 

[Keli]

I was thinking along the same lines as wovenwonder. I would make sure that I paid the regular amount ($15) and then say something like and here's a tip for dropping everything and coming over at the last minute for us and then give her the extra. It might prevent her from feeling upset next time you use her with notice and don't pay as much.

 

[Karel]

Or you could give her the regular pay and then get a gift certificate or present from somewhere and write a little thank you note on it for helping out in an emergency.