How much do I charge to babysit?

Question

I'm watching a 7 year old all summer. I was told I would be watching him about 3 days a week, but now I'm being told I'm watching him 5 days a week, but the pay is still the same. I work about 40 hours a week and I'm getting 50 a week. I think I'm getting ripped off. I want to ask for more, but I don't know how to ask, or how much to ask for. Also, he's diabetic, so I have to take a lot more effort into watching him, and always have to keep up with his blood sugar. I feed him lunch and two snacks a day.

Answer 1

anywhere fromn 6-7 dollars an hour which is totally more than $50 an hour...

Answer 2

Wow...that is so cheap. I've been looking into summer baby sitting. Believe me it's really expensive. Check out how much your local parks, schools, YMCA, recreation center are charging and bring it up to this parent. Let them know how much they would have to pay if they went with someone else. I am paying $125 a week from 9-3 for my two girls who are 10 & 11. I have to provide lunch, snacks, and money for field trips. Good luck and stick up for yourself! If you don't you'll hate your job!

Answer 3

Mention that $50 was fine when it was 3 days, but now that it's five days, you need more $.

Answer 4

Since you have to watch him more because he is diabetic, I would definitely ask for more than $50 a week.  When I first started babysitting four years ago for this one family, I got $75 a week, but that was just watching them watch tv or jumping on the trampoline.  $100 a week might be a good price to ask.

Answer 5

talk to the parents. nicely, tell them that if its possible, you were wondering if maybe you could be paid more. maybe they noticed the increase and were trying to rip you off. but really, parents are sooo busy and probably just forgot. don't ask for much, or maybe suggest getting paid by the day. if the family is in financial trounble, ignore it. just enjoy the time with the kid!!

Answer 6

You should really be getting more money for more time.  If there was a set rate for the 3 days then it should rally go up for 2 extra days.  Day care is so expensive and the parents should know that and that you are already saving them money.  Try to talk to them and explain that you NEED more money because you have other opportunities... to make the extra money.

Answer 7

you should be getting more than 50 a week.  last summer, i was getting $30 for about 4-6 hours for 2 kids (7 & 10).  see what people around your area are getting.