Babysitting Payment Issues?

Question

I babysat on Saturday for 4 and 1/2 hours. The kid was four. But when the parent got home she only paid me $12! I liked the kid but I don't want to sit again if I only get paid like $2.66 per hour?!?

Answer 1

you should be more business oriented ,It may sound crazy but, people try to get over anytime they can. without an agreemant you cant hold them to a price, and anyways if you go to the lobrary and print up a few copies of your prices and a ballpark of what you would llike to be paid ,adults giggle at the fact of your trying to do something,in the same they respect it , and at least you could negotiate prices upon the person and situation

Answer 2

when babysitting you should ALWAYS have an upfront agreement on what you will get paid that way you dont have to do it unless you feel like you are givin oyur worth.  I would set a price that u charge EVERYONE and stick to it.  Just say no for anything less.. If they parent has a problem, simply say...would you go to work for $2.66 an hour?  I bet they would say no!

Good luck

Answer 3

You really need to negotiate the rates in advance, there are some parents that feel they can take advantage of younger people.  Just sit down and talk with the parents, tell them what you are feeling and Im sure you can come to an agreement.

Answer 4

$3 an hour is common around here. Just don't babysit again. They'll find someone else.

Answer 5

thats abit rough..  next time you may want to ask about what your hourly rate is

Answer 6

Next time just make sure she knows your rate, ive been babysitting for years and if you tell a parent how much you want you'll usually get it but if you're not clear about your rate you'll always end up getting stiffed!

Answer 7

Without an agreement up front, theres really nothing you can do but explain that you expected more money for your time.  12 dollars wont get you a movie ticket and a coke in some places.  If they still wont cooperate, I just wouldnt watch him anymore.  All in all, you were doing them a favor.

Answer 8

You need to make your fees available up front. I know around here it is also different prices during the week versus the weekend etc. Also, $2.50 an hour is standard rates here. i would call around and get others rates!