There are several factors you should expect to impact the rate of pay. Once you've figured out the basic pay rate, see the following information to help you adjust the rate as needed.

Amount of child care

• Do you need a caregiver full time, part time, or just for occasional help?
• If it's part-time, is it for the same days and times each week?
• Is the job during the week, on weekends or some of each?

Location

• Major metropolitan areas tend to have higher child care rates than rural areas.
• Suburbs can also have much higher child care rates than rural areas, especially if they serve a large commuter population and are near a major city.

Number of children

• Keeping an eye on 1 child is a lot different than watching 2 or 3 or more kids. Pay should reflect this. Your sitter or nanny needs to control a larger group, deal with kids interacting with each other, and be more aware of group dynamics than if they're watching 1 child.

Additional responsibilities

• Many babysitters and nannies are happy to help with chores, as long as it doesn't interfere with their caregiving.
• Asking your child caregiver to help with laundry or pick up groceries are definitely tasks requiring extra pay. Expect to pay at least another $1 - $2 per hour in addition to the basic rate.
• Basic tidying up and getting the kids a snack are usually included in your basic rate - just be sure your babysitter or nanny knows what your expectations are.

Transportation

• Is your child caregiver required to drive the kids all over town for lessons or play dates? Are they using your car or theirs?
• If they're using their car, you'll want to offer extra compensation for the gas she uses while driving the kids. If they're using your car be sure you provide them with gas money if the tank needs filling. Some parents offer their child caregiver mileage compensation if they're commuting a long distance.

Experience

• Experienced child caregivers get paid more than those with less experience. Paying more for experience can get you a sitter who can better meet your child care needs--and you get peace of mind too.

Qualifications

• If you have a newborn or twins (or triplets!), you'll want a babysitter or nanny that has specific experience to match your needs. Expect to pay more per hour than the basic rate in your local area. It's worth it.