babysitter rates

[benjimom]

I have a current babysitter and have had to use her for several long days. SHe normally charges $10/hr, but I asked for the 14 hr shift that I be able to pay her $100/day. Do you think this is reasonable.  I can't pay her much more than this honestly.  Last night, she informed me that she no longer wanted to give a discount and wants the whole amt of $140/day.  I cannot pay this and this is way more than most expect in this area..  I think honestly, I'm being pretty generous with my payment and I pay promptly, on time and no bounced checks, etc.  Normally I just use her for before/after school care, it helps that my son is in school 7 hrs/day (thankfully!!).  would love all your opininons.  Looking at all options.....  I work 12 hr shifts.

If I used her full time it would cost me $420/week.  

[benjimom]

Thanks!!!

[Saints2804]

I don't know of the specific town you are in, but Care.com has a babysitter calculator you could use to figure out the average in your area.  Here's the link: http://www.care.com/widgets-p1313.html

I have found it to be really helpful because "talking pay" with a sitter can be so uncomfortable!  Having a "ballpark figure" is so nice and I can see what most people charge in the area without asking all my friends yet another uncomfortable question.  Best of luck!  I hope this helps!

[benjimom]

Thanks, good advice.