As a parent, I often find myself grappling with the costs of childcare, especially when it comes to babysitting. My partner and I rarely have the opportunity to enjoy a night out alone, not due to a lack of desire, but because we simply can’t justify spending upwards of $80 on a babysitter on top of our outing expenses. With two kids at home, the typical rate of $20 per hour feels steep.
Do I wish it were more affordable? Absolutely! Do I understand the rationale behind the cost? Unfortunately, yes. The question of what constitutes a fair wage for babysitting is a complex one. I often wonder if it’s unreasonable for caregivers to ask for that much, or if it’s inappropriate for me to think it’s excessive. The whole babysitting situation is quite perplexing.
Recently, an article on a parenting site ignited a heated discussion on this very topic. The author expressed her unwillingness to pay $20 an hour for someone to simply watch TV with her children. This raises an essential question: what is a fair rate for someone responsible for the safety and well-being of our little ones? I’m genuinely curious about this.
One commenter, Sarah Johnson, noted, “If I’m paying $20 an hour for someone to look after my kids, I expect them to engage in activities, provide supervision, and leave my home in better shape than they found it.” She added that she often finds babysitters merely turning on the television and scrolling through their phones while her children watch shows like Daniel Tiger and My Little Pony.
It’s easy to see how a parent might feel that $20 for someone to entertain their child is excessive. However, caregiving is undeniably work. Babysitters are not just hanging out; they’re performing a job that requires responsibility and attention. It’s amusing how parenting is often viewed as a “job” until someone else is involved—then we question why they should be compensated fairly for caring for our children.
Conversely, many daycare workers and educators earn less than $20 an hour. If babysitting were a full-time position at that rate, it would amount to nearly $42,000 annually, which might seem excessive for a part-time caregiver. This perspective understandably raises eyebrows.
Reader Reactions
Here are some reactions from readers on the article itself:
- “You’re hiring someone to be RESPONSIBLE for your child’s LIFE! The worst way to attract a bad babysitter is to underpay them and treat them poorly. I would never work for someone like that.”
- “Have you considered how much it costs to be a babysitter these days? CPR certification, background checks, and transportation all add up. You’re not just paying for some careless teenager; you’re paying for someone with experience and qualifications.”
- “No one is going to babysit for just $10 an hour. That’s not worth anyone’s time. You’re paying for the convenience of having someone available when you need them.”
According to Care.com, the national average for babysitting rates has surged by 28% over the past five years. In 2010, it was around $10.50 per hour, which increased to $13.44 by 2014, and in my area, it currently hovers around $15. However, I’ve yet to find anyone willing to work for less than $20 for two kids. Care.com also offers a rate calculator to help you find out what’s typical in your region.
In conclusion, yes, babysitters can be pricey. Are they worth it? Definitely. Will we continue to debate the costs? Of course. It’s a fair point to consider.
For more insights on navigating parenthood, check out our other blog posts, such as this one about home insemination kits. And if you’re interested in the process of pregnancy and home insemination, this resource is quite informative.