Babysitting rate

How much is a fair rate for babysitting these days? The babysitter is 17, and will be watching dd from 7:30-12:30 "ish". I'll put dd down before we leave, so she doesn't have to really do much, just keep the fort safe :)

I was thinking $8, too much, too little, or just enough?


Thanks!

Re: Babysitting rate

i have heard of rates all over the place, most of it depending on geographical area. i have had some of the girls from my children's daycare watch the kids and paid them $10/hr. this was in florida.

did you ask her what she would like to be paid? if she says whatever you can pay, maybe couch it like, "is $8 okay?" i dont think $8 is super low for a 17 year old who wont be entertaining, feeding or really watching your dd.

Message edited 7/28/2012 8:59:11 AM.

Re: Babysitting rate

I have 3 DC. My babysitter is 16. I have some odd staggered pay plan...the times when all 3 are awake=$15/hr (ths is rare); when two are awake=$12/hr and when all are asleep then $10/hr.

If I were you, I'd shoot for the $8, but be happy paying $10. I swear I got paid less as a FT high school teacher!