I never anticipated how reliant I would become on a babysitter. As a stay-at-home mom with in-laws close by and a network of friends for kid-swapping, I always thought I had it covered. Yet, over the years, my family’s babysitter has become an absolute necessity. I find myself wondering how we’d manage without her, even with my part-time job from home and the occasional need for a breather. Sometimes, I simply require someone to take my kids to the park while I navigate conference calls, attend volunteer meetings, or enjoy a few hours out with my husband sans children.
She has been part of our lives for six years now, and I can’t express enough how much I value her. She skillfully handles my kids’ squabbles, assists with their homework, and oversees their piano lessons. She drives them around, tucks them in at night, and even ensures they brush their teeth. Somehow, she gets them to eat their veggies while refusing to succumb to their incessant whining. I rarely leave detailed instructions, yet she instinctively knows how to manage everything, even cleaning the kitchen—something I certainly don’t have the time or energy to tackle.
I’ve managed to keep her in our lives for quite some time, despite the relentless competition from other parents who are eager to snag her for themselves. It doesn’t help that my kids can be loud and rambunctious. However, the value of a good babysitter is undeniable, which is why we’ve consistently raised her hourly pay. What started at twelve dollars has increased to $20. While some might balk at that price for babysitting, I firmly believe it’s a small investment for someone who keeps my children safe and happy, especially during date nights or evening meetings. And let’s not forget that she helps with their homework, which alone justifies her fee.
I am acutely aware that one day she may move on. As a young woman with her own life ahead of her, she won’t want to be the one reminding my kids to eat their broccoli or separating their wrestling matches forever. But with a bit of luck, some prayers, and perhaps a little more cash in her pocket, I hope to keep her around for a long while—maybe even indefinitely. In fact, it might be time for another pay raise.
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In summary, finding a fantastic babysitter is like discovering a hidden gem. Their value is immeasurable, and the peace of mind they provide while managing the chaos of parenting is worth every penny spent.