A recent exchange between a potential babysitter and a mother of three has sparked quite a conversation online, encapsulating the all-too-familiar excuses caregivers hear regarding low pay. The question of how much to compensate a babysitter can vary widely based on factors like location, the number of children, and the sitter’s experience. A study by Care.com found that nannies average around $15 per hour for one child, while Urbansitter reported that sitters for two kids can make over $21 in certain areas. Yet, one mom believes that $8 an hour is more than sufficient for watching her three little ones.
The Incident
The incident, which gained traction on Reddit, involved a frantic mother reaching out to a babysitter in response to her advertisement. The babysitter inquired about the children’s ages and details regarding the job, to which the mother revealed she had twin 3.5-year-olds and a 2-year-old. Noting that none were potty trained, she mentioned the sitter could “work on it.” This was a clear indication that the job wouldn’t be a walk in the park, yet the babysitter remained open to negotiating.
The Offer
When the sitter quoted $15 per hour for the three toddlers, the mom was taken aback. She insisted that her previous sitters had always been paid no more than $8, asserting that her children were “very well behaved” and would likely be asleep for most of the evening. She even referenced her own babysitting experiences, stating that she only earned $10 per night back then, urging the sitter to “be gratef[ul].”
Community Reaction
The post quickly made the rounds in the “Choosing Beggars” subreddit, a space dedicated to showcasing individuals who have unrealistic expectations. The babysitter who shared the story cleverly noted her experience in childcare, emphasizing that anyone in her position would understand the absurdity of the offer.
The overwhelming consensus among Reddit users was in favor of the babysitter, with very few expressing any support for the mother’s stance. For those uncertain about current babysitting rates, there are several ways to gather information: asking other parents, joining babysitter groups on Facebook, or simply conducting a bit of online research.
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Conclusion
In summary, the viral exchange highlights the ongoing debate over fair compensation for babysitters, with many advocating for appropriate pay reflective of the challenges involved in caring for young children.