the Cost of Baby Sitting

My husband and I have 3 children ranging from 9 months to 8 years. All 3 go to daycare during the week, however we seek alternative care for evenings, school vacations when daycare is closed, and weekends. We currently have 2 different sitters that we call to watch our children during those times. Both are Seniors in high school and both also attend the Early Childhood Development training at the local vacational school. We can often get one or the other watch the children at our home with short notice, most often a call the day before we need their services.

If it is a full day with the children, they are expected to prepare lunch since I am usually home to get breakfast ready, as well as snacks through out the day. The little one is obviously expected to be kept on his feeding scheduling, takes naps, and everyone's favorite....has fresh diapers when needed. The older need basic supervision and someone to play referee at least once during the day.

During the evening, the babysitters are expected to make sure that they are properly washed up and teeth brushed before going to bed a the appointed time. Then they are free to lounge on the couch and soak up the television all they want!

We are very pleased with the two young ladies that we have been fortunate to find as babysitters, although we do not use them every week or even every month we know that on those rare times when we get "us time" that our babies are in good hands.

I am a huge advocate of doing your research. Both the young ladies that we have available to babysit are CPR and First Aid certified, and both also work with children everyday through their vocational training. If you are looking for someone in high school, the best thing is to contact the school directly. Often times you can speak with the guideance office who will be able to assist you in choosing the right person for you and your family. If your town or a town near you has a vocational school it is even better than going to the high school because you maybe able to find someone who is training for a career in this field. Regardless of where you find someone, it is important that you spend time together with that individual and your children until everyone is comfortable. I also would stongly encourage speaking with parents or other references who know the person you are considering.