How much to pay a one-time sitter?

Temp67694062501186 · December 2009

Normally we have MIL or FIL watch DD when both DH and I have to work. Today, however, we had to enlist the help of DH's 20 year old cousin. She babysits often for family so I am comfortable with her being with DD, but it's also the first time she is watching her. It wont be an ongoing thing, either. Today she'll be watching her for about three to four hours max.

So what would you pay her in this situation? Anything at all or just thank her? I feel like I should pay her something, but I have no clue what.

evhamm · December 2009

$5/hr is baserate in my opinion.

MrsBatty · December 2009

I'd give her a $20

BengalBelle · December 2009

Ask her how much she charges. We haven't had to pay a sitter yet - but DH's 20 year old sister charges $10/hour for the people she charges (we pay her in food - MIL is an awful cook and SIL shows up at our doorstep for dinner often).

heatherlane · December 2009

I would guess somewhere b/t $5-10 an hour. So, $20 minimum.

CantWait4U2arrive · December 2009

Being family is different, but our one time sitter watches our LO for $3 an hour.

HappyTXChick · December 2009

I would say $20 min too.

We have a girl that comes sometimes when the kiddos go down and stays about 7pm - 10:30pm so DH and I can get out alone. Both kids are asleep the whole time so she just sits and watches TV and we give her $30... $35 if its past 10:30 when we get home.

HappyTXChick · December 2009

Oh, and I meant to add.. If she babysits for other family, I would ask how much they pay her.

Breezer80 · December 2009

My understanding is that sitters charge $10/hour these days. I know she's family and all, but don't be surprised if that's her rate. I would ask her what she charges, and not just hand her money.