As more and more households begin to have two breadwinners, the need for babysitters is no doubt going to increase. However, for many who may not be used to the idea of having another person take care of their child or having the extra expense, it can be a challenging period. The following list includes a few things you need to know when hiring a babysitter.
How Much Is It Going to Cost?
Throughout the years, the job of babysitting has gone from something for teenagers looking to make some extra money to do to a lucrative career for adults. In fact, the national average in terms of payment for a babysitter in 2016 was $15.71 per hour, per child. That means that most babysitters you come across will charge twice as much as the national minimum wage. You may find babysitters for a lower price; however, they will more likely than not also have less experience in the field.
The Vetting Process
A common error that many parents make when choosing a babysitter is that they simply go by what they see on paper. Anyone can boost their resume to make it better than it really is, so it is your job to vet all your potential candidates thoroughly. This begins with the type of questions you ask during the vetting process. You may include questions such as past issues and how they dealt with them as well as creating scenarios and seeing how well they answer.
Just in Case
Parents want to know that their children are being well taken care of while they’re gone. This has led many parents to secretly install hidden cameras in their homes. There are some restrictions with hidden nanny cams, but they are generally worth the investment. However, it is highly recommended to research your state’s law before installing them because some states actually restrict people from filming others without their knowledge or consent. In terms of safety, it is paramount to make a “just in case” plan for your babysitter to follow. This may include certain medical issues that your child has and what to do. You may also include alternative numbers to reach you by in the event that you are not able to pick up the phone.
Hiring a babysitter is a big step in any parent’s life. Therefore, it is incredibly important to understand not only the financial investment being made but also the person coming into your home. By adhering to the information above, you can begin laying down a strong foundation for when you do begin your search.
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