Child Care Rates: How Much Should I Charge?

I agree with everything you have posted about years of service and whether or not I come to the table with specialized training, but their are still families out there that will tighten the purse strings when it comes to paying for childcare. Even after you clean their home, do all the laundry, take out the trash, refill all the diaper bins to ensure that every level has diapers, wipes, etc., load/unload the dishwasher, wipe down all the counters, feed the children, cleanup all the bedrooms, make all the beds, pickup all the dishes left lying around from the day or night before, gather all the clothes to be washed, wipe down all the counters in the bathrooms, but all the items away, hang the clothes, fold the clothes, bring in the groceries, put them all away, clean out the refrigerator and pantry, load the firewood stand, clean up all the children's toys, books, art supplies, etc., change, feedings, naps and most of all entertain and keep them happy, while getting all these things accomplished in a seven hour period of time, for not one, two, but three children. So, the family feels that paying me eighteen dollars an hour is "sufficient," others as well as myself are beginning to feel that not only are they taking extraordinary advantage of my expertise and willingness to perform to such extra measures, but after a seven hour "tour of duty" like I have been living I am exhausted, wiped out and come back in the morning to the same thing all over again. I feel like a hamster on a wheel, and the only time I get "off" is to go to the restroom, drink some water, eat a handful of grapes and get right back on. And in my case, take the bus back home, go to bed to start it all over again in the morning. So, how do I approach the subject of either an increase or their expectations? I feel that I would lose my job as they would consider me to be complaining. Mind you, I have never taken a day off, nor have I every been late if anything I have worked beyond my seven hours and have not been compensated. I love the children and the family as they are very "kind" but I am just getting this sense of, well such and such is here she will do it. Oh, and did I mention they have a housekeeper that comes in to do the "deep cleaning" twice a week. And she is there for about 5-1/2 hours, so in 11 hours time she is supposed to clean this four level home and it stays that way? I don't think so. And when I interviewed they expressed to me that the most important thing they wanted was for the children to be taken care of and "as needed" help for the "mother" who is a stay at home mom. So, what if anything should I do? Like I said, they are very kind, as I have worked for others who where just downright abusive, but I just feel that there is something not right about priorities and when you have children, a household and such, you bring a person in to "assist" with day to day operations, you need to compensate them accordingly. Am I wrong?

I dont think your wrong what so ever. If you have been working there for a good amount of time a bit of a raise would be nice or even some recognition that youre doing a great job. Or even if they had the house keeper start coming more so you dont have to be the one to pick up all the duties of the house keeper.

Lotte W.
I think to some extend we put our self in the situation we end up in. When I interview/get interviewed for a job I state very clearly what I am willing to do and what I will do if times permit. There is a huge difference. We must make the children our priority in our day and if all else makes our job impossible as a place we recent to get up to in the morning, then we are not doing anyone any favors not even an unappreciative family. Some people really mind less if things are done or not and therefore don't see the difference to thank or appreciate a job well done. If the family, here being mentioned, should notice things suddenly not getting done, well then it's time to face up to yourself and have more respect not for them but for who you are and what you have proudly chosen to do, taking care of their children and not their furniture s! Hopefully we chose to take care of children because it's a love for children that gets us there in the morning and not a sense of having to please a house hold of furniture s and a need to be everything no other human can possibly be. If we don't ask for what we are worth we will not be respected for our worth either. Let's face it, in order to be happy care takers for the world s future adults we have to set the example how to be pleased with what we do. It will show in our presence, our attitude to their parents but first and far most our feelings about our own worth. If $ 8.00 an hour makes us happy, then that's great, but if we feel taken advantage of for that amount then we must ask for more and not be afraid we might be turned down because there is competition. There has always been competition in the world; we cannot be held prisoners for the fear of that. There is a place to start and grow and then there is a place for experience and wisdom. We all get what we pay for in life that's a fact. Maybe it feels like we give more if we leave a clean house but the sacrifice is once again an unhappy person in charge of the most valued gift we have, our children. We need to respect our self, the children we have chosen to care for, and our employers alike. The only way we can accomplish that is by being happy where we work. The only one to can change the life we live is our self. We cannot blame our employers for feeling taking advantage of; it is our responsibility and ours alone to change an unhappy work environment. Fear is; not knowing what's to come. Would it not be better to face the unknown in search of something better instead of living in misery knowing it will not change?
I decided for me after being in similar situations as you describe, never again to stay in a situation that makes me dread doing what I absolutely adore, and that is caring for children. I will rather take the risk of unemployment than be untruthful to myself and the children I am to set a good example for. I love getting up in the morning and going to work. I truly live thru my work. I set a price I can stand by and I am worth every penny. I hope you find the courage to make your work a place you love to go. I hope you take my words as a caring college and wish you all the best on the road forward.

This article is no help at all. Most parents these days want to pay the minimum or close to it for childcare, and they don't care how many kids it is or how much experience the sitter has. It's ridiculous.

I agree with Lisa M... this article doesn't even begin to cover what it needed too.

I have found some families that refuse to even consider paying minimum wage which is required by FEDERAL LAW if you work as little as 15-20 hrs weekly in someone's home. I have 30 years of childcare experience, 12+ of that professionaly, yet I am expected to work for lower pay than some highschool babysitters get? I don't think so

The family gets what they pay for. I'm all for helping out if a little extra help is needed, but it shouldn't be expected if you aren't going to be compensated for it. And my experience so far is that childcare is "worth less" than what people pay to get their homes cleaned. I'm constantly being asked to work less than minimum wage AND they want all their house work done too. Well I charge $10-$20 an hr for cleaning house. Are parents saying their house is worth more than their kids? I should hope not but money speaks loud in this situation.

I have noticed a lot of families wanting to pay between $8-10 an hour for 2 kids. That is ridiculous. I would say $13-15 is more like it, and more if there is an infant. Taking care of children is the most difficult (and rewarding) "job" out there, it's time we start getting paid like it!

I can understand this article..and the posters make good comments. I am a licensed family child care provider and though I clean my own house parents don't want to pay the asking price, but I compare prices and I know that they would pay more in a center than with myself...and I offer over 16+years experience and quality care with little to no turn over. But when you break down my weekly pay to hourly it is 2-3.00 and hour. And I feel like when it is time for me to go on vacation which they don't pay for I fell like it is a big inconvienience all though when they go on vacation and only pay a reservation fee when taking an entire week or two that they are entitled too..but dont understand why we as care givers need notice too. It is crazy...we should get paid what we are worth and should be respected more... we work hard..especially when they are in our care for 11-12 hours.

How about this. My wife and I are new parents. We have found a liscenced and bonded daycare that we pay $210 a week to care for our son. I posted a job on here for a sitter since our daycare provder will be out of town for 4 days and we had to explain to one sitter why we could only pay $210 for our infant. They wanted $400! That is ridiculous. He's only 3 mos old. I think if you are a kid, or a non lisc daycare you shouldn't be asking for that much money.
Consider people's budgets in this economy and consider how old the child is. Also don't be rude and disrespectful if someone doesn't want to pay your prices. Just accept it and move on.

Should nannies get paid extra for going with the family on vacation, even if they work the same hours???? What have others been paid???

I agree with John K. I barely make minimum wage at my job myself and on top of paying a babysitter I have all of my other bills as well. I'm not trying to be cheap or screw anyone out of money, but I only have so much that I make...

John, I am not a child care provider but a parent. Your child will not get the individualized care in a center that he gets t home. Be late picking him up and it can be costly. Also a home child care provider a lot more services as stated by the ladies above. Your child is the most valuable part of your life. I want mine treated as same. You get what you pay for.

I understand that $400 is a lot of money; but so is private school. You should not expect to pay the same price for one as you would the other. In all honesty, to find someone that you trust with your child is priceless! But if you don't have it to pay means you can't afford the service. And that is what it is, a service. So please don't get upset with someone asking price. They know what they are worth as you know what the safety and comfort of your child is worth. When I see someone offering $5 an hour, I think they are insane. I would be afraid to leave someone with my child that accepts $5 an hour. I am sure they feel insulted but just can't do any better. And the person offering $5 a hour, may feel they are getting over on someone, and maybe they are...judge for yourselves.

I now hire nannies and I was a nanny is college. As a parent, you must pay out a living wage. We own a restaurant and we pay our line cook $12. You absolutely have to pay that for care for your children if it's a full time job for that nanny. How would they pay their bills otherwise? If in home care is too expensive, then think about going to a center or in-home daycare. I agree, it seems insane to pay out $12-$15 when you are making $20 yourself, but that's parenthood and that's what you should pay if you want that in home care. If you are paying less than that, it is likely that they will not be around long.
On the other hand, I have had nannies answer my ad asking for $21 an hour to care for my two girls and I feel like that is outrageous for ages 4 and 7 years old when one of them will not be at home half the time. If you are asking for a rate of over $43k/ year, you better have a teaching certificate, teach them piano and spanish and clean my house top to bottom. That is utterly outrageous.
And to Angelita and all of you who think her description in insane, welcome to motherhood and parenthood. Being a nanny is great birth control. Because for most families it IS that crazy.

Amen Monique!! I am a single mom who has 100% custody of 2 boys. I work full time and have a home office, however, am in sales covering a large territory base. Yes, I made the choice to work in this field and yes, I am compensated well. However, I never thought I would be doing this all on my own with no financial support from the other *cough* 'parent.' I have struggled with finding nannies or sitters that will not charge me an arm and a leg to care after my boys. Who, are quite capable of doing most things on their own, as well. I refuse to pay $20/hr to an un-credentialed or unlicensed provider. It's important to me that care givers in any category take into account what is actually being done. Most of the time, the person watching my boys will be able to do whatever they want, since the boys are either off riding bikes with friends for hours, or playing at the pool. Sounds more like a nice vacation to me...and getting paid for it to boot!! The bulk of the 'care' time is in making sure they are fed meals and insuring they have someone to check in with at specified times. I dont think this warrants $20/hr. I do, however, believe in compensating someone for extra time, longer hours, possible overnights, etc. Those are all case by case issues that I have addressed as it comes up. I understand we are trusting someone with our child, but we also need to have trust that the person isnt just sitting by and milking us for all we have. Meals, no house cleaning, laying by a pool, cruising the internet, watching movies, and I get paid for it?...where do i sign up? :)

i am a professional nanny,and when i was a nurse,i paid a sitter $400.00 dollars a week,i worked nights ,and my kids werent babies,and she could sleep.i had no problem with this,why?because she was caring for my most valuable possessions,my children,i didnt expect her to clean house,i paid a housekeeper for that.alot of people devalue nannies and babysitters,they expect to much for very little pay,i think thats a darn shame.i couldnt work if i didnt i have a compentent sitter or nanny.i understand our economy is really bad right now,but,its also bad for the person you are paying to watch your children.i think,there should never be any problem with paying a person who is replacing you for your childrens care.i realize they have some sitters who arent doing there job,well if they arent,hire another one.as for moniques comment where do you sign up??why on care.com.but you wont last if this is what your sitter does ,because,she is supposed to be watching your children,not laying around.you pay for what you ask for.and if your not happy with the care that person provides,i suggest you hire a new one.i do think nannies are entitled to 20.00 dollars an hour,i know i provide more than child care,i cook,clean up,do laundry etc.its not required,but i do it,if im paid well.

Hi

I too have provided childcare sevices to a family with four children that hired me as a Homemanager.The home had three floors,three kitchens,six baths,seven bedrooms three liviving rooms etc.
I was paid a salary of three hundred dollars a week. This was for homemanaging services,not child care.I never received a penney exra for my child care services.
I took the children to activities ,fed, bathed them and many other things.
My problem was the lady of the house house refused to pay me if I worked less then thirty hours a week Per our agreement of a salary.

I did not list every detail of my employement.
But they were multimillionaires and could well afford the fee.

I love all my clients that I have worked for through this website.
But people need to understand that this is our livelyhood.
Please don't get angry because we can't or won't do somethings not in our contract.
Sometimes we have a real reason we can't do it.

Sincerly to all of those out there good luck in your endevours!
Bre

I moved here from a military town where the culture is most women don't work outside of the home so for extra money they will babysit while their husbands are away. I have a very well behaved almost 3 year old girl and there I was charged $15 a NIGHT this would be usually 4 hours on a Saturday sometimes less, sometimes more but she charged by the day not hour and I always gave her $20 because I felt like she deserved more. This was in her home. She has 4 children of her own. Here I am looking for occasional baby sitting, every other Saturday date night type thing and was shocked to see that most people are asking $20 per hour. I get the old adage you get what you pay for but I still think that is a lot of money. If you go out for dinner and movie that adds up to a very expensive date. While I appreciate the value of people and it sounds like you do A LOT!!!!! Maybe they just can't afford more? There are a lot of people watching their budgets now, not because they want to but because they have to. I personally know 3 families that were once very well to do and now on the verge of losing their houses.

i just wanted to comment on this for the parents who dont make that much money. as parents who make very low salaries they all cant be able to pay these high rates. it ends up being more than what they are making in the first place. personally for 1 child age 4 i believe that 8.00 an hour is very reasonable. on the other hand we dont expect any cleaning in our home. just caring for our son. maybe its different in all of your situations.

I'm looking for advice, I feel I'm being grossly underpaid. Please tell me what you feel I should make an hour. I have about 10 years experience with kids of all ages & backgrounds, am CPR/ First Aid certified, have good references & have my own transportation. I am currently a nanny/head of household organizer for a family with 3 kids, 1 of which is almost in Kindergarten who is a special needs child with Cerebral Palsy & cant walk. I potty train him (but parents let him sleep in pullups at night & on weekends when I am not there), teach him letters, numbers, songs, art, puzzles, music,go on outings, help him walk with a walker & stretch his muscles.
I run kids to appointments & sports, do 1-2 dishwasher loads a day, 2-3 loads of laundry a day, fold laundry, let their pets out several times a day, take out the trash, wipe down the counters, feed the children, pick up dishes left around from the day before, clean up children's/parents toys, books,etc & entertain the kids. The wear & tear on my back & body has given me muscle aches & headaches. I'm stressed out because I'm behind on my bills and they say they can't pay me what I originally asked because they don't have the money, but everything they buy to eat is organic, go out to eat, leave lights on, have a lot of brand name items & a huge house. Their pets need to go to the vet & get heartguard & flea medicine but they say they dont have the money. I feel myself & the pets are being neglected & taken advantage of.

I think there are a lot of factors to determine how much a child care provider should make. Keep in mind what our minimum wage is. The last I knew, minimum wage was not even $8 an hour. If you are making $7 an hour, tax free, you are actually working for way above minimum wage. I did much babysitting in my day, and our hourly rates didn't come close to what minimum wage was at that time. If a nannie wants to make a lot more money , there are plenty of other jobs out there, and maybe child care is not where they will make it. I do understand that many people will pay well, but sometimes that is a regional trend. Not everyone can. Also, consider the job description. I do not expect my nannies to do housework at all! They are there for the children. Unfortunately, feeling like you are not paid what you are worth is part of life. Many people are very skilled and compassionate about their jobs and probably worth their weight in gold. However, it does not mean they earn what they think they are worth. Also keep in mind the price of other services. Sure, your child gets individual attention at their own home, but there are also a lot of good things for your child at daycare centers or at a sitter's home where they are surrounded by a small group of children. Sometimes children benefit from the structure and resiliance of being in those environments, too. They learn to adapt to different places and people. Most parents consider the cost of those programs when they base their in house sitters wages. If it is way more expensive to have an in-house sitter, then parents will use other options. Sure, I am expecting quality child care at a fair price, but if you are expecting over $10 an hour, you will not get it from me. It will not be worth me working.

Children are (or should be) the most valuable possession (althoughI hate to use that word) that parents have. Yet, I have found over the past 4 decades that the majority of parents really cheapen the value of their children by not being willing to pay the going rate and bonus.
The rate is different depending on which part of the country you live.
When I nannied for several years as a single woman and then newly married, I made between $$300-$400 per week. That was 25+ years ago! My daughter is an excellent nanny and sitter, does not use the TV as a substitute sitter, and does many extras, children love her, and yet so many parents still try to pay minimum wage or lead-in and my DD is not a teenager!


To Vanessa, you did not say what you made, but it definitely sounds as if you are being taken advantage of. I am a learning specialist, and if I were teaching the special needs child what you are, I would charge a minimum of $30 per hour! And that

Sorry, is there a maximum number of words?
Anyway, for everything you are doing, you should be well compensated.
It sounds as if the parents know they have a good thing going. I would have a heart to heart talk with them, outlining everything you do, asking what they are not pleased with, and negotiating a better rate. If that doesn't work, you have no choice but to find a new job because you don't want to work with negative feelings. Hope this helps.
And, to the dad with the three month old - your infant is completely dependant on an adult! Finding someone capable that is trustworthy is priceless!,

I too have over 10 years experience. I work to pay for my bills and educate children! I know I am wonderful and fun with children of all ages and I am not charging crazy pay rates. $2-$4 an hour is plenty for 1 or 2 children! I have never been one to charge per child. If I can get buy charging less for taking care of someones child to help them out that is what I am going to do! It does not by any means make me less of a childcare provider or mean I am only going to do half of my job because I make alot less that deserved or than someone else! No matter the pay I take joy in caring for the children. Being a single Mom I understand budgeting for every little expense so I dont think parents asking for less than paying 10 an hour is a bad thing! If you are working for a single parent or even a couple 10 an hour is almost what majority of people make for their own job. So someone would be working just to be away from their children. If someone is looking for reasonable priced, reliable, fun, scheduled, caring babysitting around Madison Wisconsin feel free to get ahold of me.

Thank you Leah! Most of us don't make more than $10 an hour and that's before taxes. In our case we finally desided we would do better financially if we switched to a single income home and I supplemented with alternative income like selling crafts and babysitting. We struggled with paying a nanny $100 a week for a few months but it was just not worth it. I really don't know how other people do it. What on earth do people making minimum wage do? Or single moms? It's just insane! Thank god for good care takers who love their job and are willing to take small income in order to enjoy such a rewarding position. Personally I would rather watch 3 children and make a fraction of what I once made than kill myself for 40 hours a week away from my little one. It is a blessing that I have the opportunity to stay home with my son, and in return for this blessing I pass on the good fortune by helping out my fellow moms as best as I can. Being a child care provider is a luxury and I do not take it for granted.

I totally understand that child care is expensive which is why I think many try to avoid going to a certified day care and instead of settling for a good nanny or good babysitter. Many folks complain about how much they don't make and so they won't pay a babysitter or a nanny a good price. Well, then maybe it's best for them to take their kids to a day care and see how much they'll love forking out all their paycheck. I've had an opportunity to work at several day cares and I loved it. I love children and many parents love me because I give my time and my all to their kids since I now work as a babysitter. I don't mean to be harsh or anything but babysitters are also working so they must be paid a good chunck of change especially when a babysitter babysits for a living. Just like contractors. If a parent won't agree to pay me a good price based on my knowledge and my really good experience then i'll tell that parent politely to either take their child to a day care or take the kids to work and see how they like it. You work and get paid and i'm trying to work for you so I can get paid. Its simple.

I provided licensed child care in my home for 6 years and really enjoyed it! my only problems were that many parents left their children way past the agreed upon hours or would stiff me on the bills regularly. It became a weekly thing that I would hear sob stories for why parents couldn't pay. I love children but I have bills to pay as well so I decided to go back to work. Now, since both my husband and I work full time, and have 6 children ages 1-10, we have needed to utilize child care services. I make $10 an hour at my job while my husband makes $25 an hour. We pay our sitter $10 an hour but do not expect any cleaning or extras outside of childcare. I really do wish we could afford to pay her more but I basically work to pay for a sitter. It's cheaper for me not to work but I enjoy the solace of getting "a break" at work. It is sad that quality childcare providers are underpaid and often under appreciated but the economy these days makes it very difficult. If you are an underpaid nanny don't complain. Be thankful you have a job but remember you are not forced to stay in that situation.

I noticed that someone said that anyone who only charges $5 an hour is not well qualified or is just crazy...I disagree. Keep in mind that the person charging only $5 an hour may be watching more than one child. Example: if a person watches four children out of their own home for an average of 10 hours a day, weekdays only, that equals to $1000 a week before taxes. That is over $50,000 a year before taxes which is way more than a lot of people are making nowdays. If, however, you are only watching one child in a more traditional "nurse" or "nanny" position in someone elses home, then it is expected to charge more. I would expect to pay a lot more to someone that was coming to my house to watch my child than someone I was taking my child to, especially if my child was not the only child receiving care. If I was the care provider's only source of income, then I would expect to pay considerably more than I would to someone that has multiple income sources (aka children to care for). My point is, the circumstances really define the amount you should expect to pay. Also, if you are paying for childcare, expect to get childcare, cleaning and other services to your home should cost more. You wouldn't expect the plumber to scrub the soap scum out of your tub when they fix the leaky faucet, so don't expect the nanny to clean your bedroom when they come over to watch your children. That being said, if you take your child to someone elses house for care, expect to pay extra for food costs and diapers, or bring your own. This is the same as paying extra for the parts when you get repairs made on your car. So, when you are looking at childcare costs, look at all the aspects affecting the price, and if you don't like the amount someone is asking simply look somewhere else, there is no need to be rude.

I left the Corporte world after 20 years and now I stay at home and watch kids. I charge 125-150 per week per child. I try to make it reasonable for families because I have been on both sides of the situation. I feel fortunate to be able to work from my home and get my own children on and off the bus. I love children and enjoy spending quality time with them. I do not try to undercut anyone but am simply trying to offer affordable, dependable, and quality daycare. Providing daycare is hard work and it would be great to make 5-6 an hour or even more but I am realistic. I am fortunate to have found some wonderful families with great kids. I watch 3 kids total and I feel like the kids love and respect me and he families have a lot of respect for me to. Be realistic, treat the children as if they were your own, and be thankful to have a job.

Neither parent nor caregiver should accept a situation with which they are not comfortable. Set the price you are willing to pay a caregiver or accept from a parent. The people willing to accept the set pay or pay the set price will respond. We do not know the reason any particular person, whether parent or caregiver, has for what they can can accommodate and cannot with reason judge. Sometimes blessings come for both caregivers and parents when one or the other is struggling.

To Shelly, min wage may be appropriate for a childcare worker in a center but I'm a nanny/household manager to 3 kids & one is little with special needs. The nanny calculator said I was entitled to $15.50 an hour for 3 kids in their area & that's before adding the additional fee due to special needs & household extras that I do. I really like the family I work for & try my best to make their life easier but I'm struggling financially with no insurance. I live by myself & am finishing up college so it's not easy.
To Tina, I make less than $13 an hour & most of that is paid by an agency they use due to his special needs. I'm planning on speaking with them about this again. To Leah,it's financially impossible for you to live by yourself & survive on $2-$4 an hour, much less be able to also provide responsibly for a child. If you receive child support or other financial help & live in someone's house expense free, then $2-$4 may fit your budget. It don't think it makes you less of a childcare provider or think that you're going to do half of your job because you make alot less then deserved, it just means you have help with your expenses & less financial burden. If I could afford to charge less I would in a heartbeat but I can't. For Jael, I'm an excellent care taker, with references & certification to proove it, I love children & knowing I'm making a family's life easier but my bills don't pay themselves. If I was in your or Leah's shoes & didn't have to be financially reliant on myself I'd charge less too. For Izabella, I agree.

Don't cheap out on your child care provider if you like and want to keep her/him. There are too many people out there willing and eager to take your place. I charge $11 to $12 an hour and expect this to be rounded up by my families. A tip is always nice and appreciated and remembered. The people who pay me, round up, are generous, feed me and make me feel at home, the people who tip occasionally and who recognize that I used MY car and MY gas to take their child on an outing, so pay me for gas, those are the people I book first. If you like your child care giver, be generous to a fault and understand that this is their living, they are caring for the most valuable thing in your life and you want them to be happy campers so they will put you first on the list or stay with you as long as you need them. A really good, trustworthy, reliable babysitter is hard to find. When you get home from a night out and have tipped the waitress so you are short on the cash you owe the sitter, we don't understand and we don't appreciate it. We remember that, too. When you are pulling out the money you owe her, counting it up and coming up a couple of dollars short, you are not only stealing, but you're going to lose a valuable asset, your babysitter. Those couple of dollars were earned and are owed. You may be tipsy and think it's no big deal, but the sitter has been sitting there and knows exactly what is owed to her and, rightly, expects to be paid and would appreciate a tip every now and then, especially if you were later than expected or the sitter did something special for you or your child. Sorry if you just spent a couple of hundred bucks on your night out, sorry you paid the tab and over-tipped the waitress and you're home now and ready for bed. Pay your sitter. That's what was intended and that is what is expected. Tip the sitter, she obviously did a service for you and stayed an extra hour or two she hadn't planned on without complaint. Be generous, it's in your best interest if you like this sitter and want her to be available to you. It will pay off, I promise.

Hi Sheri W,

I am wondering how much I should charge to watch a 4 mth old, 2 yr old, and 4 yr old? It will be full-time (M-F from 8-5 pm)

Thanks,
Lina

I watch an autistic child for about 5 dollars an hour or $100 a week no matter the hours. The person is a single mom and cannot afford anything else. I also babysit for another family where I watch 2 children for 5 dollars as well, however, the mother sometimes doesn't give me enough money for the time spent. Should I charge more? I don't like to take advantage of other people but according to where I live, the calculator says I should charge about 11 dollars an hour. I'm not sure what to do, but I babysit at all hours of the day and night for either family if they need me.

Even if experenced, anyone caring for children should have at least 12 to 24 units of early childhood studies classes from a Community College. The classes should include 3 units of CPR and 3 units of Infant and Toddler Care. (You can also be certified and voluntarily fingerprinted under the Trustline Program if you are in California, costs about $100.) I am a retired professional who returned to college and earned 24 units by taking night classes(you meet many childcare professionals who are also taking the classes and exchange ideas). The classes are fun but require lots of homework and perfect attendance to attain an A or B grade. While my part time rate is $20. hr, I accepted $15. for at least 35 hours of work a week. My focus is on sanitation and safety for the children, but I also perform most aspects of housecleaning for the household.

I am having a hard time setting a price for the jobs I am listed under. This is the first time I have ever had to set my price. I have always worked in corporations that set the price. I lost one job because I was unsure what to charge to feed a cat! I need help with this,PLEASE. What do you charge for a newborn or a toddler? Hopefully, I had a person offer me a job yesterday. I will meet with them today.
Kathy

A nanny is something different than a babysitter. If parents of the children are not looking to pay enough money for their childcare provider to live off of since this is probably and most likely their only job. Look into hiring a babysitter who takes children into their own home (There is constantly adds in the paper for this type of childcare) and might not be asking as much because they have more than one family of children they are caring for at one time. Otherwise, list your childcare needs under a title of babysitter and not nanny. Someone who babysits will keep your children safe and will meet their basic needs but not be responsible for meeting other needs that a nanny would likely provide.

The thing I wish as I look through the job listings on this site is that more families would list the specific hours they are looking for childcare (the list provided is of little help for knowing if it is 40 or 50 hours) and also the pay range they are offering which is what they will base on their income and the number of children they have as well as extra duties outside of general childcare and children's needs. I read so many profiles on this site and some of the jobs sound wonderful but I do not want to waste my time selling my services to them or their time if I don't know how much money I will be making. I need to make a certain amount of money to pay my bills. I believe I have posted the pay range I am looking for which is based on how many hours I will be working and has been chosen because of my experience.

To those nannies out there doing household chores on top of childcare, my question is rather or not it is being discussed in the interview process. Yes you should be compensated for the work you do and you should have an agreement on those things. If you are doing more than asked stop doing them because your employer never asked you to do those things and didn't agree to pay you for them. If you are doing them upon request at the time of agreement then you should have included those things in the amount you are being paid. If you were asked to do them after you took on the job and you have a contract which I very highly recommend pull it out and discuss it with them. If no contract you need to ask at the time of them asking to add things to your duties about compensation. Please don't enter any of these areas without any kind of agreement between you. I believe the best policy for the nanny is to have a written agreement between you and your employer. It is also important for the family because there may be something you expect and agreed on that your nanny is not fulfilling and you can discuss this with them.

Since some profiles list so little information I wish there was a way we could ask questions to a potential employer other than typing a lot of things about ourselves to sell our service to them before we know much about the family.

Lastly, I clicked on a commitment to respond to a families inquiries within say one day. At the same time I have sent several applications so to say to potential families and in the amount I have sent I have heard back from only one family. Please oh please respond to your applicants even if it is only to say thank you for your interest in my family and maybe a one sentence comment so they know they have filled the position or looking for other qualifications. Just something that says you are not interested in a kind way.

This is such a hard topic. I don't think most people want to be cheap, but people are on tight budgets. I am in the process of trying to go to work full time. If I find a job we will need child care. Now I pay my occasional sitter well, but I know I would not be able to pay a full time care give $15.00 an hour. I just can't. I know I can't pay a ton, but I would not expect her to clean my house.

I think both parties need to agree ahead of time what the job includes and what the salary is going to be. I can't imagine not paying someone if I owed them money. Set the terms and stick to it.

Some families are extremely cheap they want the nanny to work more than 8 hrs per day (even 9-10), be there at 6am, five days a week( even ask you for some" date nights" etc) some cleaning, cooking, laundry, errands, pick up kids from school, help with the dog.......... ( with 2 or 3 kids: one of them a NEW BORN ! ) in one word they want you to be nanny, housekeeper ,chauffeur....pet trainer etc, for way less than minimum wage, they won't post the pay rate by hour so doesn't sound so low, but they want to pay $3 PER HOUR when the average pay in this city is $12+ ( which is ridiculous low, not even Walmart would pay you that bad ) who can live with this kind of money?, this is a serious- demanding job, most of us with more than 10 years of experience loving and taking care of the most precious possession any family could have ....and it should be respected .Some people want to pay the nanny same or less than a day care, we all know that you can't compare the individual attention by a experienced nanny with those full of germ places.If you can't afford to pay for one on one child care( with help around the house) please don't post humiliating and insulting posts, you need someone to help you produce money for your family is exactly the same way for us nannies, maybe a day care( which won't do anything for you at home) is better for you.

Angelita, no offense but if you're so myserable at your job why stay...$ isn't a very sound reason to stay to me.
I mean you act as if you're the only one out there doing what you do lol again no offense. When we take any
new challenge on I thought the whole idea was to do exactly what you do? I mean at least for me it is, and I love what i do and guess what.. I work from 5:30 a.m until 5:00 p.m okay that would be a whole 12 HOURS ;). It is what it is, if people are hating their job go get a job making less, and doing less too. =)~

I agree with what you all are saying. I work for a family that receives daycare assistance and the state only pays you $2 an hr and it seems like everyone in town expects to only have to pay that much. So in order to get any work that is what i need to charge in order to even be looked at for care. And I provide a lot of extras that people want but don't want to have to pay for them.

You are right. The state pay you so little to care for children. Parents are having a hard time to find a qualified sitter. Many of them have to leave their children in the care of people they do not have a good relationship with. Most of them find themselves with no other choice because they are trying to survive at their minimum wage job. Ever wondered why so many children are being raped and murdered?

some parents take advantage for a sitters,400$ per week is ok for 1 child, but 2 children to take off plus house hold choires,preparing meals every morning,laundry,general cleaning,bed linen every week,and folding clothes,plus some time thy come home late and thy tell you ,can you stay about 3 hours because we are late to come home.suddenly parents is always complaining and very hard to please.some parents also are crazy especially nanny live,why parents put wecam on nanny room that kids always telling to the nanny i saw you today,you taking a bath,mom said we know what you doing on your room.i saw you naked,oh wow what kind of parents and employer that one.i know some parents taking some medications but that is againts the law

You have to set your standards of what it's worth to you and your household.I have been a licensed home-based center for 8 yrs. My prices go up and down depending on the economy,i cut people breaks on prices all the time,but what I find is they don't cut you one,so even with all my experience....I get sick or need a break I hire people and I don't get extra pay for it,I have to budget it from my earnings....reall important to take care of self and let them know that.

I've been asked to spend the night for a babysitting job where the parents have to fly out of town. It will be approx. 23 to 24 hrs. The children are very easy to care for, ages 12 and 10. I normally charge $10/hr. but don't want to over charge considering I'll be sleeping though the night. Is there a standard way to calculate an overnight setting job?

I agree with most of you in the Baby Sitter/ Nanny Business. Parents expect you to do the housekeeping job in addition to take care of their kids for the one salary. Furthermore, a live-in Baby sitter/nanny is expected to work around the clock for the same pay.
People are happier to pay more for a dog sitter now days then parents for a baby sitter/nanny for their children.
I guess working parents should use a more effective birth control system, in that way your kids won t have to go through the instability of going from one babysitter/nanny to another; which in a long run could affect them psychologically.
What about those ADD, ADHD, Bipolar, etc., children that parents don t want to accept their kids having these problems and the babysitter/nanny have to put up with children with these kind of problems.
Yes, Day Cares are less costly, but also there is where you children catch all the infections, the workers have to take care of at least 4 children per caregiver, and you have to drop and pick up your kids according to their schedules and rules, and they don t, come to clean your house and do all the extra things the baby sitter do at your home, and most importantly your child will never be more safe then in your own home.

Well, check this out girls! I am almost three months pregnant, and have been married for a few months. I have 9 yrs of experience. I am watching three, half-way behaved children (ages 7, 6, & 1) in my home, 12 to 13 hrs A DAY on average. I pick two of the kids up from school,help them with their homework, take them to activities, cook, clean up after them, and the one yr old is still on formula and will not go anywhere but her diapers...the list could go on and on. And what do I get for this? $120 a week, FOR ALL THREE. That's less than $2 an hour!!! That adds up to only $480 a month. My husband is unemployed also. That is NOT paying my bills at all, not in this economy. People have got to understand that THIS is our ONLY livelyhood!!!!! People put a budget on their kids when they refuse to pay out for their children's welfare. I say that if you can't afford the cost of childcare, and you wasn't prepared to pay the expenses that having a child brings, then you probably wasn't meant to be a parent in the first place! Its a parents responsibility to ensure that their children get quality care,not "who's the cheapest?". Who's the cheapest could get you more problems in the long run. Babysitters don't run a charity service, they do a service that not many people would settle for and its the only thing between them and living on the street somewhere. They do a most often, thankless service.

I totally understand what you are putting up with Hannah C. I was watching anywhere from 2-6 kids and I was making $1 an hour for 8-12 hours a day. I cooked cleaned. Helped with homework. Bathed and put the children to sleep. I took them to the doctor when they were hurt or sick. I had to quit because they quit paying me and they still owe me 100 dollars. I love kids, but sometimes i think that child care providers are taken advantage of. I hope that someday it will change!

I have been working in this field for 21 year. Started out as a licensed childcare provider for 8 years and found out that most parents do not put child care on the top of their list. I was a working single mother of 3 and child care was 1st on my list, simply because without it I could not work. I have worked in Child care centers and as a Nanny. To top it off I have a degree in Early childhood education and working on a second degree. About 9 years ago I worked for a family where I picked up a ten year old from school they offer me $17. per hr for 5 hrs M-F,$200. per month of health insurance, $500. per semester for school and when I had to take him any place they paid for milage. They paid for cleaners to clean their house.
Most resent I worked with for the last 3years where I stared out with 1 child at $18.50 per hr after 5 months got $19. per hr. 1 yr. later another child was born at which I was offer $23. per hr. I worked 3 days 10 to 11 hours per day. I organized lesson plans and schedules, developed inventive theme-based activities and designed a comprehesive and cohesive approach to the physical cognitive and emotional development for the children. No housekeeping except for the mess the children and myself made and prepare meals for the children only. I have been so bless to work with families that compensate me for taking care of their precious children.
I just can't believe when I look through the job postings on here that people are asking for so much and want to pay so little. I whole heartedly agree with ELENA S. well said.

Hello Everyone,

Thanks for speaking up! I gained much insight from the comments posted here regarding compensation for child care services. I am new in the nanny field and have very little knowledge about going pay rates. I have been taken back by the low wages many families are willing to pay for child-care and cleaning services. My question: what is a fair and decent wage for a live-in nanny? I have found it quite comical that families believe the room and board provided is free for the live-in nanny! I see room and board as a part of the compensation package that the live-in earns for services provided. I recently accepted a position that includes room and board and $300 per week for my services. The parents work out of town/state five nights per week and are at home only Friday evening through Sunday afternoon. The five children range in age from 10-16 years old. I am hired to cook two meals per day, clean house, do laundry, transport children to and from daily activities, supervise children, assist with homework etc... basically to parent the children and manage the household five days and five nights per week while their parents work out of town. I am a certified classroom teacher and mother/grandmother. I love children especially within the age group of this family. I have an additional source of income, so $300 per week plus room and board is sufficient for now. When I had my own home, my household expenses including rent were about $1,200 per month. Adding that cost to my salary, I am basically earning $2,400 per month or $32,800 per year. I think this is fair and reasonable for a live-in position if the parents were in town most of the time, but seems a little low when both parents work out of town five days per week. What do you all think?

To Edith F.
You are underpaid. They should be paying you at least $450. a week and if you earn over $1000 per quarter, they have to pay for Unemployment Insurance and Workman's Comp insurance. You should be able to teach these children how to pick up after themselves, teach them how to clean a bathroom, (take turns weekly) wash & fold their own clothes, and help wash dishes, vacumn etc.
The parents should be willing for you to teach their children "how to be responsible" and not expect a Nanny to do everything. It doesn't matter what your personal household expenses WERE-- You are in a Valuable Service and they have to pay insurance. Contact the IRS for the information.
I wish you well.
Crystal M

I love children a lot and i will always be there for them when the need help with something doing homework

I find it interesting that a previous poster wasn't willing to pay more for a nanny/ babysitter than a daycare for his infant. To me, the difference is quality. I've worked at 3 different daycares, two of which operated at state maximum ratios. Even in the infant room, the ratio is 4 babies to one teacher, making it so that the majority of the day the infants are left on the floor or in the crib, except at designated changing or feeding times. Also, these workers are paid only about $8/hr for juggling all that work, and often are so exhausted that things get overlooked.

A nanny is worth the extra for several reasons:
-Your child gets individualized care, physical contact, adult interaction and mental stimulation that is crucial for development
-Everyone is likely to work better when they feel good about their worth and your level of appreciation, which you show them by what you pay them
-Nannies are likely to help out with more than just basic childcare, if you're paying them reasonably.

Also, like someone else mentioned, everyone has a different idea of what is reasonable. For me, coming from getting paid $8.50 at a daycare for caring for *9* two-year-olds single handed, I'm more than willing to work for $350 a week for one or 2 kids, as long as I'm not expected to do housework. If there was significant housework involved, I would definitely go up to about $450. The difference in the care I could provide to those 2 kids, versus the 9, is that I could actually engage them in learning, interact with them one-on-one, and keep them much safer than was possible in the other environment. With the 9, I spent the majority of my day changing diapers, potty training, and attempting to get 18 shoes put on little feet long enough to get them to the playground once a day. It was mass chaos, and not uncommon in daycares that you only pay $210 a week for.

And Shelly K., $7/hr, even tax free, is NOT way above minimum wage. Minimum wage is $7.25, and at that rate taxes are only about 10%, which would make it $6.52. So, it's a little bit over minimum wage, but not by much. That's a whole $20 for a 40/hr week...not even enough for a tank of gas.

How do you tell the family you babysit for that you are not getting paid enough? My friend is having this problem. She babysits a 15 month old little girl from 10-5 everyday 5 days a week & does basic chores plus the regular feeding and caring...she only gets 500 a month for this. Is this even acceptable? We are college kids for goodness sakes. Thats only about 3 an hour!

what i find is people dont want to pay much.i have 18 years experience of being a nanny/housekeeper and they want to pay $5.00 an hour for 2 kids. that is crazy and on top of that they want u to drive there kids everywhere. what really gets me mad is people place ads, u respond to those ads and they either say they will call u which they dont or they dont have the common respect to answer your response.most of the time people want the best care for there children but they dont want to pay for it. i think that is so wrong.

I had this issue and I, very professionally and appropriately asked for a raise... and I got one. Not as much as I had expected but every dollar counts. I did it through an e-mail so that the woman I work for was not "put on the spot" and had the time to think about what I was asking before having to respond. Truthfully, it did not seem as though she wanted to raise me but when I explained to her how I felt, she seemed to understand. Hope this helps and hope whoever needs that raise gets what is deserved.

I have very rarely come across a family who pays at least or higher than the legal min. wage in my state. Not to say that they don't exist, but most of the time I get parents who try to pay me very low wages. I do have experience and training, so I just don't get it. I try to be reasonable, but nannies have to pay rent too, you know?

It really helped to read all the comments.I'm going for an interview Saturday for one child (9 mos.) during the day but it's nine hours and does include getting an older child on the bus in the a.m. Mom claims she paid the last sitter $80 a week but would go up to $100/week.That's a litte over $2/hour and includes housekeeping. I have no idea what day care costs but home care has got to be worth more for the attention, health situations, nurturing, etc. I hate when they ask "what do you charge?" when their posting usually list $5-10 hour. Play fair!

I am fortunate enough to be a stay at home mom and prior to that paid my sister (very well) to care for my children. Now the only time my husband and I need a sitter is once or twice a month to go out. When we do go out we put our children to bed first and never stay out past 12am. Right now only family members and friends watch our children, (and those are the only people who have ever watched them) Now we are relocating out of state and it occured to me that we will need to look into babysitters as we will not be as lucky as we are now and have our family and friends there. And with 4 children and no time just as husband/wife and always mom/dad you lose alot in a marriage. I decided to look into this site as I've never had to leave my children with anyone other than family and know this site offers reviews, backround checks, etc. I do agree full time nannies should be well compensated especially when working for families who can afford to live in 4+ story homes. However after seeing how bitter and resentful so many sound I am now even more scared to find a babysitter for my husband and I to go out 1-2 nights a month It's not that I have an issue paying at all as we only go out for about 4-5 hours maybe. You all go on and on about "not trusting someone who only charges $5 an hr., I'd be much more scared to leave my children with someone who is this resentful behind my back about what they make. Lord knows how much of that resentment is taken out on the children. I am not making any implications just as a parent if I were to see that someone who watches my children went on a rampage like many of you have, that is the first thought that would come to my mind. Yes, caring for children is difficult, however you know that and you continue to do it, maybe your not paid what you think you should be, so don't do the job anymore. Again I'm not saying you should not be compensated just that your resentment and rampages have completely frightened me as far as finding a sitter other than family to care for my little ones.

Another thing I love how many go on a 5,000+ character vent session about how "underpaid" you are then rebound with "I stay cause I just loooove children. No you stay because you can't find another job that will pay you the $20.00/hr. your complaining about. I know if I was that upset about what I made for what I did I'd find something new. On the other hand if I loved what I did that much $20 an hour would be a great bonus to the fact that while making $20/hr I get to do something I love so much.

Hi,

HOW MUCH SHOULD I CHARGE FOR 3 KIDS???

Well Since I am New to this? Let me tell you, When meeting Parents I am Always Honest and I make sure that They know! That I am not a Housekeeper I am there for the Children, Sometimes 'Yes' They do like to take advantage I have run into those!:) No Worries! Not Any More! Always be at Front and Clear about your Services! If I am not what they Need? I move on! There are many good Parent's out there still, I Always ask Questions to be be more Clear, I used to just listen and not Speak and at the end of the meeting I would ask myself? but this person did not let me speak? Not Any More! I will ask questions Just how they ask me? Correct? I Love What I do :) Will Never work in a Preschool Ever Again!!

@Sara H. I can see where you are coming from. Don't be scared/offended by people's comments. It's just that many of these nannies/caregivers are sick to death of people taking advantage of them....especially if they are not hurting money wise.

@ Lisleydis R. It depends on if they are taking taxes out/and how much (or how little lol) they are paying. Personally, anything under $6/hr is done at my house (for that little money I'm not gonna drive and use my gas and I also get to be in the comfort of my home). I like getting paid just with cash/checks. If I were in charge of 3 children I would charge $8/hr (the minimum and "under the table" so to speak) and more (like $9-$10/hr for "on the books"). Hope this helps.

@Cynthia, say "screw that!"...don't really say that lol. Tell her if she wants to pay that little, she needs to bring him to you. You need to take into account driving time/gas. You need to make a living too (bills, food, just money to have some fun, etc). Charge (at the least) $6/hr "under the table" (you know cash/check...I don't know how 1099's work).

I am a professional Nanny/Child Care Worker, semi retired after working in this field for over 40 years. Previous to marriage and having my own children I was a live in Nanny....seriously underpaid and overworked especially here in the USA! Parents tended to look on me as the housekeeper rather than the children's Nanny. I decided never to live in again and haven't for many, many years. A live in Nanny should make it clear,before accepting the job that you take care of the children, only! Also the hours per day that you are expected to be in charge. You should insist on an afternoon break after lunch. You teach them to pick up after themselves (if not infants) and supervise them doing it. You take care of their clothes and their bedrooms, laundry,ironing etc. You do not take care of the parents. You supervise them at all times. You never leave your charge or charges unattended! On your days off you do not stay 'home' and 'help' . If asked by your 'boss' you may work over time and charge the going rate per hour! any where from $15 - $20 per hour. Remember this is the way you make your living and your free time is very valuable as a live in child care worker. Be proud of what you do, do not let parents take advantage of you or treat you less that what you deserve. Caring for children is a very rewarding experience. Set the rules (both theirs and yours) at your interview write them down and have a copy for both you and your employers.
Enjoy your job and enjoy the children then every one is happy.

Article could have been a bit more helpful, but oh well.

So is getting paid $200/week for a 3 and 5 year old (45 hour week) way too low? They don't want me doing anything extra, just watch the kids and clean up after ourselves, and pick the son up from school 3 days out of the week. Is $300 a better rate?

Your thoughts please! I don't want to be cheated out of money that I work hard for!

How much do you think a family should pay a nurse with 14 years experience with pediatrics

To Sara H. from back in March 2012 who claims the complainers make her scared to hire these babysitters--The way I read the messages is the people who are getting $5/hr or less are the only ones complaining! Exactly! Read it again-the workers who can get $10-20/hr are not complaining-they are saying that they deserve this much.
My other comment is I was just hired to care for an infant with special needs and they were thrilled to get me for $9/hr because I am a retired peds nurse. Without even asking me, I was informed I would care for there other child for some hrs. also. When I mentioned that I thought I should get a" little" more pay for taking on 2 kids I was let go immediately! So, all of you are correct--these parents spend plenty on fancy cable TV systems and everything else they enjoy but can't give another $1.oo/hr for expert reliable childcare from a professional!! WOW! thanks for listening-I am upset with these people-I loved this baby and took great care of him!

If you as a care provider are not being offered a fair wage in your opinion, it is very simple to solve: NEXT!

My employer actually just asked me what I would charge if I spent the night. I normally charge $14 an hour for 2 kids . I don't know what is okay to charge my employer. I do love the family but I do not want to be taken advantage of, but at the same time I want to be reasonable.

Here's a new perspective: I would guess that 9 out of 10 mothers WANT to stay home to take care of their children. The problem is, now days, it typically takes two incomes to 'survive'. Every morning I* wake up wishing I could stay with my 2 daughters. One is almost 2 and the other is 5 months. It takes all I have to walk out the door and put a sufficient smile on my face so my employer feels like I want* to be there. What I am expecting from my sitter, is LOVE. I believe that encompasses, Changing diapers, playing with the kids, helping potty train, teaching them to share when the opportunity arises. making sure they are feed and always have something to drink. I believe it is common courtesy to leave the home as you left it or in Relatively better condition. I am not saying you need to clean the house, only to pick up after the children. And I DO pay less that what most of these posts are saying they get paid. From the same perspective: I watch children once I get home from my full time job (mainly to try to offset what I am paying my own sitter) And I KNOW what is it like to have to penny pinch so I DO NOT CHARGE as much as any of these posts have listed. And I do that,once again, because I know what it is like to be on the other end.
** You may have asked yourself WHY I just don't quite my job to stay at home. Because LONG TERM, I don't want my girls in the same situation I am in. I have investments lined up .. to pay for my and my husbands needs when we get older so that my children don't have to give up too much to take care of their elderly parents. RIght now, I can also afford them to go to swim classes and gymnastics and softball if I work.
***Here's some advice. Ask your employer for their expectations AND what how much they will pay. If YOU don't think it is fair then make a counter offer. No one is twisting your arm to take the position. If you feel taken advantage of and you can't communicate to your employer you, it's YOU with the problem, not them. Sorry to say. I do wish you good Luck, because as a mother (not just an employer) I want someone there for the right reasons, not only the $$$.

To Ashley M.

Your employer asked how much you will charge if you stayed the night.

If I were in your shoes I would think about:

1. What I currently charge
2. How much could I possibly get (yes, think big)
3. If I charged that amount (in #2) Would they ask me to stay the night again? Is it really too much?
4. Would I want to stay the night again? Or would the large amount work for one time? Can I justify the price? (and Be ready too!)
5. Have a back-up offer. ALWAYS - Think like a business, after all that is what you are.

For Angelita K: I do everything that you listed above but for 4 children, not 3 and I make $6/hour.

I recently experience the worst work situation possible. working from 6am to 8pm Monday to Fridays and 7am to 6pm on Saturdays. In total 81 hours a week for $300. Live in nanny for 3 kids all under 2 years. I lasted 8 days. Could no longer take the injustice.

I noticed that someone above mentioned a rate of $7.00/hr and "tax free." Is it really tax free? I've been wondering how to set it up so as to be an employee as compared to an independent contractor. Does anyone have any information to share on how to do this or where to go to find out, such as online links? I've already tried to find out from the IRS and that person seemed really clueless. Regarding rates, according to the calculator on the Care website, the lowest rate in my area is $8.50/hour for one child, and this is a rural area. That seems pretty idealistic. I was surprised, but I don't know what care providers here actually make in reality.

sue c. I've had the same experience and I offered PERFECT care of their child AND their home. They wanted to take vacations constantly and simply not pay me. I told them protocol would be 1/2 pay since I support myself and after all, they can't tell the mortgage company they won't pay for those weeks they aren't in their house (of course, I was very cordial); they terminated me. These folks think people are dispensible!! If I had someone who loved my child and I didn't have to worry about the safety and care of my child, I'd pay and make certain my caretaker was HAPPY. I even encourage nanny cams since it can only HELP me if say, a child fell, it would prove I was there watching them, but it happens, etc. And these folks have TONS of money in huge houses, but want to skimp on the "hired help" like we aren't even people. It hurts a lot. One man SCREAMED at me because he thought I gave his dog rasins since the dog's vomit looked like it had rasins in it, he called me early on a saturday morning and no, I'm NOT kidding. Another doctor couple wanted me to be able to separate their 120 lb each GERMAN SHEPHARD dogs when they fought!!! When I told them, no, I'm afraid to do that (like any normal person) they terminated me! who gets fired over DOGS???!@!! I could go on and on. One women said she found scratches in her floor and it must have been when I was there because after all, I am the heavest person they had in the house!! lol I'm 200 lbs of solid muscle, not some 1,000 lb person who would make indentations on their wooden floors!! Linda

To Judy F. I am an independent contractor (so, I will be given a 1099 at the end of the year) and a lot of parents do that. However, I did work for one family that had me part of their company and gave me a weekly check with taxes already taken out. Some families rather do "tax free" (they just don't want to deal with paper work and such) but honestly this isn't legal. I mean, it's ok with occasional babysitting gigs but as for a job that you go to on a regular basis-no. I also don't know where you are located...and that makes a big difference. But for me for example, I live in North Carolina and I feel like with my experience and education, I will NOT WORK for minimum wage (which is $7.25/hr). If they are claiming taxes I will charge $7.50 for one child (actually I am probably being too nice and should bump that up to $8/hr) and add $1 for each additional child. You also need to take into account your responsibilites (like are you gonna drive the kids). So, using me for an example again, if I'm using my car/gas I think adding another $3 (cuz gas is about that much) would be fair...so that would put me at $10.50/$11/hr....and that is just for one child that is. If I'm watching 2 and driving them using my car then $12/hr.

This article does give some really good advice. It is smart to compare what other people are charging (like on Craigslist or calling daycares to see what their prices are).

I just thought of something else, why isn't there a forum/message board on here? That would be a good idea. So we can have nanny/babysitter support lol!

I have just about every single one of these posts and there are good points to each side. Some prices are high (like wanting $20 per hour but then again I don't know where you are located...) and some are too low (weekly rates that equal to about $2/hr). We need to keep in mind that we don't know the circumstances of the families we are dealing with.

For example, there was one family wanting to pay $200 a week for full time care (that equals to about $3/hr). AND they want YOU COMING TO THEIR HOUSE. The only people who would do this for this kind of pay are retired people. But for the majority, who would do this? Need to take into account time and gas. The ONLY way I would consider this is if I'm watching the child FROM MY HOME. I understand times are tough for some people AND AT THE SAME TIME they want EXCELLENT/GOOD QUALITY CHILDCARE...but if you don't want to enroll your child in a daycare center expect to pay a little extra for a nanny/sitter.

Here is a tip for families that are hurting money wise: Team up with another parent that has a child and you can split the cost (so, let's pretend each of you have 1 kid that's 2 kids which you should probably expect to pay a sitter $9/hr so that is $4.50 an hour if you and another parent split the cost!) Just a suggestion.

hello everyone! So i am doing a project for college- like what is something we want to do in life. Therefore, i need your help. My choice is "running a daycare" It can be small... but i just need help figuring out how to write down the steps i would have to take to do this. I love kids and helping them as much as i can, but I am not sure how much money i would make, or how much my asking price is. What are all the qualifications i need to be one? Help would be greatly appreciated. thanks!

care.com NEEDS to make available lists of agencies that do help cover the costs of childcare to those parents that are struggling to make ends meet enough as is. There are local, state, AND federal agencies that will pay up to 3/4 of the costs that a provider/caregiver charges, so with these agencies in place, there is no excuse for paying less than minimum wage. However, I also understand that a person can not make use of these agencies if they do not know about them.

We live in Frederick, MD. 4 bedroom house, pretty standard. We are hiring a live-in nanny. Included : separate room with walk-in closet, iphone with data plan, laptop with Internet access, 2 weeks a year paid vacation time, gas assistance. We work from home so often play late in the monring and complete work early but late evenings occur once a month, on average. Expected: to work M-F 7:30-5:30 with almost 2 year old boy, naps noon to 2 at home, twice a week to attend 30 mins paid development activity, grocery shopping once a week, laundry as needed no strict rules, dinner cooking rotation twice a week. $400 a week with 4% yearly raise, 1 week extra vacation after 3 years. What do you think? Enough \ too much \ too little? Need honest opinions.

I think there is a HUGE difference between LIVE-IN and LIVE OUT situations. Granted, Live-ins usually get room and boaard provided as part of the deal so a slightly lower rate is understandable. Still from what I have seen locally, most seeking live-in care usually go through several nannies per year because they cannot keep someone long term. The same rules apply to those looking to pay so little for live out care. It isn't that most families cannot afford to pay better rates, they would just prefer not to. InnaP.... What you are offering is very fair, and the fact that you outline the duties is important as well. I would however include something concerning holidays, especially if your nanny has family in other areas.

I am an RN working in a hospital setting and planning on quitting my job in favor of a daycare center in my own house.I am making $500.00 a day for 6 days in a pay period.I am reading all inputs made by people here and my concern is, if they use the day care , they only pay $120.00/week.And if I take only 3 kids , it means I will only make $360.00/week.I have all the CPR certification etc that comes with being a nurse... I'm planning on accepting only newborns to 6 months, more specialized than older kids. How much do you think should I charge for each baby? We also have a camera circuit that parents can check in their kids the whole time.I think it's safer that way to avoid the harsh accusations just in case your relationship with parents would go south. I only work weekends so maybe I should not let go of my profession right away, I too have to pay my bills.I also need some advices how to start this business.I know I need to get the license and bond but how do I start from there?

How much should I charge if I have multiple kids for separate families? Like tonight I had 6 kids, 4 diff families?

I have over ten years experience with all ages. I am looking to work for a family with twins boy and girl age six. I have been approached to do due light housekeeping, meal preparation and homework help from 3 to 6 weekdays. I was wondering what to charge. I am thinking fifteen dollars an hour very well to do family. thanks

It's so sad on here to see what parents are not willing to pay for their kids... they want to drive their fancy cars and have their nice clothes... yet when it comes to the most important people in their lives, they want to complain when a sitter asks for more than 10 dollars an hour! Cut down on your star bucks, shut the lights off more...do less laundry, whatever you can to save money to pay a GREAT sitter! Parents, please stop complaining about how "outrageous" the prices are that nannies are asking for... I am a single mom and a nanny, living off my nanny wages... If I can't afford a sitter, well, then I don't go out! Point blank... Parents, sometimes date nights are a red box movie and microwave pop corn after the kids go to bed! And that's just what you signed up for after you decided to have a child! I would rather pay 15 dollars an hour for a sitter with experience and know my child is safe, than to leave him with a pre teen or untrustworthy person who is only charging 5! I mean, really, don't complain... weigh your options, it's your decision to hire them or not! What is your child's SAFETY worth here to you? I have worked as a nanny for 6 years and have a degree (almost!) in early childhood education, i expect to get paid like it! I know how much work goes into what I do, and in no way is it "sitting by the pool and surfing the internet"... it's taking care of someone's LIFE, to always keep on alert for potential dangers, and always having fun new activities to keep the kids entertained... not to mention being needed the ENTIRE time you are with that CHILD, because they really can't do everything by themselves if they need a SITTER! So please parents, pay your nannies what they deserve for loving your kids... and nannies, don't be afraid to ask for what you DESERVE...

WOW! GOD BLESS YOU!

i have just open a family daycare in my home cause my childcare cost more then i was making so i decided to stay at home with my kids. i have rates that very in age and do charge more for infants my rate is 150.00 a week for infants and $75.00 for children over 8 my cost is high do to what i provide for the children like meals 'snacks i even provide baby food and for pre school i provide work books for the children so i take what it cost to run and provide all things kids need that is how i got the cost if my parents provide thing then my cost goes down.

Thank You Aubrey. I am disgusted by the wages being offered. Many will put the sob story in the post,"single mom, cant afford more than 100.00 per week for full time care" Hey that is not my problem. Whether you are a single mom or not, there is not one person on this website that owes you anything.

I am very blessed to be working for a family. Within the 8 months, I already gotten 3 weeks paid vacation. This year, I am getting three more weeks payed vacation, I've been taken care of the single infant since he was 3 months. All I do is watch over him, cloth him, etc. From 6Am to 6Pm. Once they first offered me $8.25, I thought they were crazy. Being a single mother, I've realized "Half a bread is better than nothing". Within 6 months, they raised by pay to a dollar more.

Hi, Im Val and I advertise myself here and on CR as NANNY/HOUSEKEEPER. I usually manage to make a deal where they are willing to give up their monthly or biweekly cleaner for me to fill the spot.
I am going to tell you this....the VAST MAJORITY of potential employers will play the "poor" card and ALWAYS underpay us. Presently, I care for 2 children in Blue Bell and also do laundry, and clean a 4000 sq foot house for $350 a week. Everyday, they get pickier and I become more and more resentful since I am so ridiculously underpaid....it's absolutely CRIMINAL!

Although I have seen this question posted, I haven't found an answer. What do I charge for 3 nights a week? This will be for 3 children for a total of 40 hours a week. The hands on time will only be for around 4 hours a night/morning. Dinner, playtime, bedtime and then I get them ready for school the next day. The time in between is mine as long as I stay in the home. I have 15 years experience and am in school for elementary ed. so I actually do have an interest in children and not just a job. I want to be compensated for my time, but I don't know how to charge for sleeping! (The children are old enough to sleep through the night.) The people I've talked said that the rate I came up with was too low. Any ideas?

I am a nanny and I drive the children to sports, sometimes I drop both children off at a sport and go home and the father picks the children up later. Should I get paid for the travel time to get back to babysitters house? Sometimes the sports are 30 minutes from there house.

I need a little input on weekend rates for the Tampa, Florida area. I'm charging $10/hr. for date night sitting for two children, 6 and 8. What would be a fair price for a Saturday, Saturday night and part of Sunday?