How much should I charge for child care in AZ?

Question

I stay home with my two toddlers and have been watching my five-month-old nephew, five days a week. I have been charging $3/hr. Now I am adding in another baby, (3-months-old), and was going to charge her parents the same. Is this reasonable or over-priced? I don't want to be ripping anybody off, including myself. Any advice/suggestions would be greatly appreciated! THANKS!

Answer 1

Wow,thats pretty cheap.I wish I can get a babysitter for that price when the time comes.Life is so expensive.Don't you think atleast minimum wage would be more practical?

Answer 2

I charge $3.75/hour for under 2 years old. They depend on their caregiver much more than children that are older. They demand much more of your time and attention and that is what you are being paid for isn't it...to spend time with these children and help them learn and grow? So I think...if you feel $3.00/hour is reasonable pay for you than it is definately fair for the parents. If you are afraid they may feel it is too much just come right out and ask..."Do you think $3.00/hour is reasonable? If there is something that would work out better let me know."

I went from charging by the hour to charging a set weekly rate. This seems better for the parents to have to keep track of arrival and departure times, especailly when one parent drops the child off and another picks up, it is just less confusing all around. I charge $170/week for 2 and under for up to 50 hours. It goes down to $150 for ages 2 to 5. This system also works out better for parents who work longer hours.

Answer 3

that's not that Bad...they will get charged like 200 per child per week in a day care! I pay my MIL 100 a week to watch my daughter..so that's actually a really good deal..where at in Arizona are you