Parenting Insights
The Value of Babysitting: An Ongoing Debate
Updated: April 13, 2023
Originally Published: April 13, 2023
It’s time for a reality check: What is a reasonable wage for a babysitter? My partner and I rarely enjoy a night out by ourselves—not because we don’t want to, but because the financial burden of hiring a babysitter, which can easily reach $80 for a few hours, is just too much. With two kids in the mix, the typical rate we encounter is around $20 per hour.
Do I wish babysitting were more affordable? Absolutely! Yet, I understand the reasoning behind these rates. Determining a fair price for babysitting is challenging, and I often find myself torn between thinking it’s unreasonable to pay that much and feeling it’s justified. The babysitting conundrum is perplexing.
Recently, a post on Home Insemination Kit stirred up discussions about babysitting costs. The author expressed frustration, stating, “There’s no way I’m paying a babysitter $20 an hour to watch TV with my kids.” This raises a valid question: what is a fair wage for someone responsible for the safety and well-being of children?
In her piece, Sarah Collins articulates her expectations: “If I’m paying $20 an hour, I expect some real engagement with my children—not just a passive presence. I want my kids to be active and entertained, not just plopped in front of a screen.” Many parents can relate to this sentiment, feeling that $20 for someone to “hang out” with their kids seems excessive. However, babysitting should be regarded as a job, not merely a casual hangout. These individuals are providing a crucial service.
On the other hand, one can’t help but notice that many childcare professionals, such as daycare workers and teachers, earn less than $20 an hour. If babysitting at that rate were a full-time job, it would equate to nearly $42,000 a year, which understandably raises eyebrows among some parents.
Comments on the article reflect this divide:
- “You’re hiring someone to be responsible for your child’s life. If you underpay them, you’re setting the stage for a bad experience.”
- “Do you even consider the costs involved in being a babysitter today? CPR training, background checks, and transportation are just a few of the expenses. You’re not just hiring someone off the street; you’re paying for their skills and experience.”
- “Honestly, who would work for just $10 an hour? It’s not worth anyone’s time. If you want reliable care, you have to compensate appropriately.”
According to Care.com, the national average for babysitting rates surged by 28% over five years. In 2010, it hovered at $10.50 per hour, rising to $13.44 by 2014. In my local area, the average sits at $15 per hour, but I’ve yet to find someone willing to babysit for less than $20 for two kids. Care.com even offers a rate calculator to help parents gauge average costs in their region.
In conclusion, are babysitters costly? Yes. Are they worth the expense? Absolutely. Will this debate continue indefinitely? Without a doubt. Fair is fair.
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Summary: The ongoing debate about babysitting wages highlights the complexities of valuing childcare services. With rising costs and differing expectations, parents are left questioning what a fair price truly is. Ultimately, babysitters play a crucial role in child welfare, and their compensation reflects that responsibility.