Babysitter Questions

I live in a large community and am looking to hire someone inside the community. This way they could also walk over here if necessary, etc. I was thinking of someone 15-20 years old. Is 15 too young for a babysitter? I wouldn't expect them to drive or have any certain amount of credentials. This would only be for a few days here and there a month for a few hours at a time... like date nights with my husband or in case of an emergency. How much would you pay a 16-18 year old per hour to watch your child? What kinds of questions should I ask when interviewing potential people?? What information should I have of theirs? I want to start looking/interviewing but I'm nervous because I don't really know how much $ to offer and what questions I should be asking to judge if they are worthy.

Message edited 5/2/2014 7:32:58 PM.

Babysitter Questions

I don't think 15 is too young. I was babysitting the neighborhood kids at that age. Also, I'm sure their mom would be home and just down the road.

No clue what the going rate is. Maybe $12-$15? I would ask what experience they have. References. I would also have them come over during the day to play with dd and watch how they interest before committing.

Re: Babysitter Questions

We have a senior and sophomore who babysit for us. The kids are usually sleeping when they come. The senior drives here and the sophomore I drive back and forth. We pay $15/hr. I think that's high but my dh insists lol. I think $12 is good. I asked them what they charge and they said whatever I think is fair. I got them through a moms group in my town. Her aunt rec her. Then the senior is a friend. I called and spoke on the phone asked a fee basic questions about their experience and days available and transportation then asked if they could come by to meet. They did stayed for about 15 mins. We talked about the kids and their experience again. And that was that. Set up a few dates. And now I just text when I want and that's that.