What is the babysitter/parent etiquette?

Question

I have been babysitting for a family for about a month now. The girls and I have become really close and the parents and I have a great rapport. I'm even going on vacation with them.

The father's birthday happens to fall a couple days before we leave for vacation and also on a day that I'm watching the girls.

My question is: what, if anything, should I do?

A card? A gift? I was thinking of helping the older girl bake cupcakes, but I'm not too sure about that because she's only 3 and the younger one is 1. Help would be lovely!! =]

Answer 1

Cupcakes would be a great idea!  You can bake them and have both kids help put icing on them.  Just make sure you dont let them eat too much icing.  I think the dad woudl love this!  You can also help them make cards for their dad!  Good Luck!

Answer 2

I would def get him a card.  One thing that you can always do for a man that is always fun is a few lottery tickets!  If your state offers scratch tickets get him like 5 or ten dollars worth.  If not, just buy the ones that are drawing for the biggest amount of money.  That way it is a small gift, but a chance to win a lot!  He knows you went beyond a card, and his wife doesn't think it's too personal!  Plus, she will be able to share the money if he wins!

Answer 3

I think a card from you is a nice idea.....hold it aside until the entire family is doing gifts together.  You don't want to 'trump' mommy's gift to daddy, of course.  With the girls, help them color cards for daddy on construction paper....fold it up, put it on the table for when he gets up.  It's easy for you, the girls can do it themselves, perfect.   Cupcakes are kind of contrived, because it's not really a gift from them, more from you.  Nice thought, but I say go for the card.

Answer 4

baking cup cakes with the girls is a great idea 3year olds love baking and if their for daddy even better , also there is no problem getting him a card as it will just show how thoughtful you are.

enjoy your vacation.

Answer 5

listen to Mandita. she is wise

Answer 6

Helping the kids bake cupcakes would be a lovely way to acknowledge his birthday.  You could even bake them at home the night before, and just have the kids put sprinkles on or something.   It's not too personal, it's inexpensive, but he'll appreciate being remembered.  Maybe you can help them draw daddy a happy birthday card too, but I wouldn't buy one seperately from you.