In a recent Reddit exchange that has gone viral, a conversation between a mother of three and a potential babysitter highlights the all-too-common debates surrounding babysitting wages. The discussion showcases the many excuses that parents often use to justify offering low pay.
Determining an appropriate babysitting rate can be influenced by various factors, including geographical location, the number of children, the sitter’s experience, and the specific responsibilities involved. According to a survey by Care.com, nannies typically earn around $15 per hour for one child, while Urbansitter reports that the average pay for two kids can exceed $21 in certain cities. However, one mother feels that a babysitter should feel fortunate to accept a mere $8 an hour for taking care of her three toddlers.
The interaction began when the mother reached out to a babysitter who had advertised her services for last-minute assistance. After the babysitter inquired about the children’s ages and the hours needed, the mother revealed that she has twin 3.5-year-olds and a 2-year-old. She added that none of the children were potty trained, but she encouraged the sitter to “work on it.”
The sitter responded by stating her rate of $15 per hour for three kids. The mother quickly dismissed this figure. “We’ve hired several sitters before and have never paid more than $8,” she declared, clearly shocked at the sitter’s request. The babysitter politely declined, insisting that $15 was her minimum rate. The mother expressed her disbelief, insisting her “well-behaved” children would merely be sleeping most of the time. She even reminisced about her days as a babysitter, claiming she only made $10 a night, urging the sitter to “be gratef[ul].”
This post, shared in the “Choosing Beggars” subreddit, resonated with many, as the community overwhelmingly supported the babysitter. It’s evident that the majority of Reddit users sympathized with her situation rather than the mother’s perspective.
If you’re unsure about the current rates for babysitting, there are several ways to gather information. You could ask fellow parents about their experiences or join babysitting groups on social media for insights. Alternatively, conducting some online research can also shed light on the going rates.
In addition to navigating babysitting dilemmas, parents might also explore options like the home insemination kit for family planning. Resources such as UCSF’s fertility insurance FAQ can provide valuable information for those on their journey to parenthood. For couples interested in learning about intracervical insemination, the experts at Make a Mom share essential insights.
In summary, the ongoing conversation about babysitting wages reflects broader societal perceptions about childcare and compensation. With varying opinions on what is fair, it’s crucial for both parents and sitters to communicate openly and establish fair rates that respect the value of childcare work.
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