What is fair when babysitting two small grandchildren ?

1. 60

   twilanelsonposted 14 years ago

   What is fair when babysitting two small grandchildren ?
   
   Is it fair for  you to pay your mother to babysit your two small children ?   And if so, how much money would be fair to pay her ?

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2. 0

   Giselle Maineposted 14 years ago

   This is such a difficult question! I'm a mother of 2 young kids and this is what I would do:
   
   It all depends on whether it's regular babysitting (like, more than once a week and requiring a regular ongoing commitment from her), or not.
   
   If it's regular (e.g. as a form of childcare to allow you to go to work), then I would think you should pay her (or at the very least offer to - or arrange for some gift-in-kind instead).  Since she is the grandmother of the young kids, I wouldn't think the amount paid need be as high as a professional daycare provider.
   
   On the other hand, if the babysitting is not 'regular' (e.g it's just to allow you to attend social events occasionally; or it's 'backup' childcare for the odd day when the kids usual childcare is unavailable such as public holidays & you still have to work) then you really shouldn't be expected to pay her.  Although a small gift like some home made muffins might be a nice gesture.
   
   Hope this helps. Like I said it is a difficult question and I'm really eager to see what others have to say, especially the grandmothers.

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3. 80

   barbergirl28posted 14 years ago

   Personally, I don't think that you should have to pay a grandparent to watch their grandchildren. It is a way for them to spend time with them... and you shouldn't have to pay someone to spend time with your kids.
   
   From a personal view, I have parents (both my husband and mine) that are very reluctant to watch our kids. In return, because they act like my children are such a hassle, we have slowly stopped going over to visit at times.
   
   Granted your question is about paying, but I guess what I am getting at is they should be happy to spend time with the grandkids, which means no payment is necessary. However, if they are watching them daily, I would do something to show my gratitude!

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4. 67

   scoobydebposted 14 years ago

   Whatever two people agree with is fair. Does she want to be paid? If so, ask her how much she wants. Then decide if that's within your budget.
   
   Grandparents are not obligated to babysit their grandchildren. They've already raised a family.
   
   That said, I do not charge to watch my grandchildren. But that doesn't mean my time isn't valuable, I just don't need the money and I watch them when I choose to or in an emergency situation.

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5. 59

   tamra87posted 14 years ago

   Well that really depends. My mom babysits my kids while we work and I dont really pay her. She loves them and wants to spend time with them. She conciders it their bonding time while we work. But If i had lot of extra money i pay her somthing if i can. Also if she needs anything like gas money or somthing and i can i do it for her watching the girls.

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