How much should I charge for babysitting or nannying?

Babysitter counting money to decide how much to charge for babysitting

Last updated: March 2026

Whether you’re a first-time babysitter or an experienced caregiver, knowing how much to charge for babysitting can feel tricky. You want to be fair to the families you work with, but you also deserve to be paid what you’re worth. This guide breaks down the latest 2026 babysitting rates by city, number of kids, and experience level so you can set a rate you feel confident about.

How Much Should I Charge for Babysitting in 2026?

According to UrbanSitter’s 2026 rate data based on thousands of real bookings across the United States, the national average babysitting rates are:

  • 1 child: $26.24 per hour
  • 2 children: $29.87 per hour
  • 3 children: $32.33 per hour

These averages have risen 4.9% over the past year, so if you haven’t updated your rate recently, now is a great time to do so. Keep in mind that rates vary significantly by city, with some metro areas averaging $10+ more per hour than the national average.

Babysitting Charge Per Hour by City (2026)

Where you live is one of the biggest factors in what you can charge. Here are the current average hourly babysitting rates for major U.S. cities, based on UrbanSitter booking data:

City1 Child ($/hr)2 Children ($/hr)
Atlanta, GA$20.78$23.74
Austin, TX$23.39$27.58
Boston, MA$25.52$27.78
Charlotte, NC$23.56$28.67
Chicago, IL$22.21$25.83
Columbus, OH$19.98$20.71
Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX$19.25$22.58
Denver, CO$24.05$26.60
Honolulu, HI$27.22$29.38
Houston, TX$21.69$23.68
Las Vegas, NV$21.16$23.08
Los Angeles, CA$26.11$29.22
Miami, FL$21.15$26.56
Minneapolis, MN$21.35$23.46
Nashville, TN$23.43$24.53
New York City, NY$26.03$28.77
North Jersey, NJ$25.38$26.52
Orlando, FL$21.68$23.00
Philadelphia, PA$20.10$21.00
Phoenix, AZ$20.59$23.63
Portland, OR$23.98$27.07
Raleigh/Durham, NC$22.23$24.29
Reno-Tahoe, NV$23.90$30.50
Sacramento, CA$22.79$24.32
San Antonio, TX$18.21$21.94
San Diego, CA$24.39$27.06
San Francisco, CA$29.63$33.70
Seattle, WA$27.70$30.79
Tampa Bay, FL$21.26$25.58
Washington, DC$23.95$26.01

Data sourced from UrbanSitter’s 2026 rates study based on booking data. For an interactive rate lookup by your specific zip code, try our babysitter pay calculator.

How to Set Your Babysitting Rate

Your ideal babysitting rate depends on several factors. Here’s how to think through each one:

Your Experience Level

If you’re new to babysitting, starting near or slightly below your city’s average makes sense. Sitters with 3+ years of experience, CPR/first aid certification, or an early childhood education background can typically charge more per hour than the local average. Families expect to pay more for proven, reliable caregivers.

Number of Children

The national data shows a clear pattern: sitters charge about $3 to $4 more per hour for each additional child. If you’re watching one child at $26/hour, charging $29 to $30 for two kids and $32 to $34 for three kids is standard. Some sitters prefer a flat per-child add-on (like +$3/hr per extra kid) to keep things simple.

Ages of the Children

Caring for younger children, especially infants and toddlers, requires more hands-on attention and often specialized skills. Some sitters charge more for infants and newborns compared to school-age kids. If you have infant care experience or newborn care training, make sure your rate reflects that.

Time of Day and Holidays

Overnight babysitting and holiday bookings are worth more. Many sitters have separate overnight babysitting rates, and holiday rates that are often 1.5x to 2x the normal rate. New Year’s Eve is the most in-demand babysitting night of the year, and sitters who are available can charge premium rates.

Extra Responsibilities

If the family asks you to do meal prep, driving, pet care, or light housekeeping in addition to child care, factor that into your rate. 

Transportation Costs

If you’re driving 20+ minutes to get to a job, it’s reasonable to factor gas and commute time into your rate. Some sitters add a flat travel fee ($5 to $15 depending on distance), while others simply build it into a slightly higher hourly rate for families farther away.

How to Charge More for Multiple Kids

One of the most common questions sitters have is how to adjust their rate when caring for more than one child. Here’s a simple rule of thumb:

  • 2 children: Add $3 to $5 per hour to your base rate
  • 3 children: Add $5 to $8 per hour to your base rate
  • 4+ children: Add $8 to $12 per hour to your base rate

For example, if your rate for one child is $25/hour, a fair rate for three kids would be $30 to $33/hour. Keep in mind that the ages of the children matter too. Three toddlers require significantly more attention than three school-age kids who can entertain themselves.

Weekly Babysitting Rates

For regular weekly babysitting, many sitters offer a discounted rate compared to their standard hourly charge. Here are common approaches:

  • Regular weekly schedule (15–30 hours/week): For families who book you consistently, a slight discount ($1 to $2/hr off your standard rate) is common. The consistent income and schedule predictability are worth the trade-off.
  • Full-time (40+ hours/week): At this point, the arrangement starts to look more like a nanny position than babysitting. Nanny rates are typically negotiated as a weekly salary and often include benefits like paid time off, sick days, and health insurance contributions. If a family is asking for full-time care, it may be worth discussing a nanny arrangement.
Babysitter playing with children at a park

How to Raise Your Babysitting Rate

If you’ve been sitting for the same family for a while and haven’t raised your rate, here are a few tips:

  • Give advance notice: Let the family know at least 2 to 4 weeks before your new rate takes effect. A simple message like “Starting next month, my rate will be $X/hour” is professional and clear.
  • Time it right: The start of a new year or after you earn a new certification (CPR, first aid, etc.) are natural moments to adjust your rate.
  • Reference market data: You can point to updated rate data (like the city averages above) to show that your new rate is in line with what other sitters in your area are charging.
  • Be confident: You’re providing a valuable service. Families who appreciate your work will understand a reasonable rate increase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I charge for babysitting per hour?

The national average babysitting rate in 2026 is $26.24 per hour for one child. Your rate should reflect your experience, location, and the number and ages of children. In higher cost-of-living areas like San Francisco and New York, average rates are $28 to $30 per hour. In more affordable metro areas, $22 to $24 per hour is typical.

How much should I charge for babysitting a newborn or infant?

Caring for a newborn or infant requires extra attention, specialized skills, and often more physical effort than watching older children. Some babysitters charge more per hour for infant care compared to their standard rate. 

What should I charge for overnight babysitting?

Overnight babysitting rates vary based on location, experience, responsibilities, and the number of children. In many areas, families pay a flat overnight amount (or an hourly rate while kids are awake plus a flat fee for sleeping hours). A typical range is $200 to $325. For more detail on pricing and common pay structures, see our guide to overnight babysitter rates and tips.

Should I charge friends or family for babysitting?

This is a personal decision, but your time and skills are valuable regardless of your relationship with the family. Many sitters offer friends and family a small discount (10% to 20% off their standard rate) rather than sitting for free. If you prefer not to charge close friends, consider setting a limit on how often you babysit for free to avoid feeling taken advantage of. A good rule of thumb: if they’d be paying someone else to do it, it’s reasonable for you to be paid too.

Does it matter if I babysit at my home vs. theirs?

Yes, and it can work in your favor either way. If the family comes to your home, you save commute time and can set up your own space for the kids. Some sitters charge the same or even slightly less since they’re not traveling. If you’re driving to the family’s home, especially if it’s a long commute, adding a small travel fee ($5 to $15) or building the travel time into a higher hourly rate is completely reasonable.

How much should I charge for babysitting 2 kids? 3 kids?

Based on 2026 national averages, the going rate for two children is $29.87/hour and three children is $32.33/hour, though rates vary greatly by location. That works out to roughly $3 to $4 more per additional child. Use these averages as a starting point and adjust based on the ages of the kids (younger children require more attention) and the complexity of the job.

How much should I charge for date night or weekend babysitting?

Date night and weekend rates are generally the same as weekday rates unless the job involves unusual or late hours or a holiday. For New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day, and other peak-demand nights, rates of 1.5x to 2x your normal rate are standard.

How much should I charge for full-time or weekly babysitting?

If a family wants you for 30+ hours per week on a regular basis, you’re essentially functioning as a nanny. Nanny rates are typically $18 to $35 per hour per child depending on location, experience, and responsibilities often negotiated as a weekly or annual salary. For part-time regular gigs (10 to 20 hours per week), offering a small discount off your standard hourly rate ($1 to $2/hr) is a common way to secure reliable, recurring income.

How do I figure out what babysitters in my area charge?

The best way to see what babysitters in your area are charging is to check the city rate table above or use UrbanSitter’s babysitter pay calculator, which pulls real-time data from your zip code. 

Ready to start earning? Sign up as a babysitter to connect with families in your area and set your own rate. Create your free profile and browse jobs today.

The information in this article is intended as general guidance and does not constitute professional financial or employment advice. Babysitting rates and compensation structures vary widely by location and individual circumstances. UrbanSitter is not responsible for outcomes resulting from rate negotiations between caregivers and families.

Do babysitters have to pay taxes in 2026?

Do babysitters have to pay taxes?

Do babysitters have to pay taxes on earnings from UrbanSitter jobs or other child care jobs? According to the IRS, the minimum income you had to make in 2025 to file taxes in 2026 is $14,600 if you’re filing as “single” and you’re under 65, or $16,550 if you’re 65 or older. If you’re filing jointly because you’re married, the minimum income ranges from $29,200-$32,300 depending on your and your spouse’s ages.

It’s important to remember that UrbanSitter is not an agency, and we do not employ sitters. As a result, we do not provide W2s or 1099s to sitters. That’s why we’ve put together this handy list of resources that you can use to help make filing your taxes as easy as possible.

How do taxes work?

How do I know what taxes I owe?

Where can I find my UrbanSitter earnings?

You can find a complete history of all payments received through UrbanSitter on your Account – Transactions screen.

How do I file my taxes?

Where can I get tax help or advice?

Will I receive a tax form from UrbanSitter?

UrbanSitter does not provide tax forms for babysitters or parents registered on our website or app. When using urbansitter.com, babysitters are independent contractors, not employees of UrbanSitter.

If you need to know your earnings for the previous year, you can find a complete history of all payments received through UrbanSitter on your Account – Transactions screen.

Where can I find more information on taxes?

We hope we’ve helped answer the question of “do babysitters need to pay taxes?” If you need more detailed tax information please visit the following sites:

Are there resources that can be used throughout the year to make filing taxes easier?

Yes! If you’re a full-time nanny or babysit for the same family on a regular basis throughout the year, services like Paychex, The Nanny Tax Company, Intuit, or Square Payroll can help keep track of your earnings and taxes paid.

Disclaimer: UrbanSitter’s presentation of the resources in this blog post is not in any way an endorsement or tax advice. Taxes and tax advice are complicated by nature, and you should be sure to do your own due diligence when preparing for the upcoming tax season. UrbanSitter is not responsible for any tax or other advice provided by any entity, nor is UrbanSitter responsible for filing or assisting in the filing of taxes for parents, babysitters, and/or nannies registered on www.urbansitter.com.

How to Become a Nanny: A Step-by-Step Guide

how to become a nanny

If you’re considering a career as a nanny, you’ve come to the right place. Understanding the job requirements, expectations, and necessary skills is crucial. This guide will navigate how to become a nanny, covering various options like travel, live-in, summer, and night nanny roles.

What is a nanny?

A nanny is a child care specialist who works in a family’s home to provide customized, personalized care for children. A nanny job may be full or part-time, and may or may not be a live-in nanny arrangement. The job requires a love of children and a genuine interest in their well-being, growth, and development.

5 steps to becoming a nanny


1. Build your background and skills

Nannies typically have previous experience caring for children. Either through babysitting or caring for their own kids—or by working with children as a teacher, counselor, nurse, or daycare provider. Typical characteristics include dependability, emotional maturity, high energy, and adaptability. Nannies should have the ability to focus on each child’s needs, provide a safe and stimulating environment, and remain patient and calm under pressure.

“In addition to understanding how to protect and enrich the lives of the children in their care, a professional nanny needs to be able to communicate effectively with his or her employers,” says Marcia Hall, first vice president for the International Nanny Association (INA). “Good nannies excel at caring for children, the great ones can also interact with the child’s parents with ease and honesty.”

2. Train and get certifications

Although no formal nanny training is mandatory, specialized classes and certifications will enhance your caregiving knowledge. As a result, this makes you appealing to parents seeking a nanny. These include:

  • CPR and First Aid Certification— According to the INA, nearly 83% of nannies are CPR and First Aid Certified. You can find a class for training and certification (certification typically lasts only two years, so you may need to be re-certified) through the American Red Cross. They also offer Water Safety Education classes or the American Heart Association.
  • Early Childhood Development and Education—It’s difficult to care for a child and meet his developmental needs without an awareness of typical development. You can find a course at a local community college by searching the National Association for the Education of Young Children.
  • Newborn Care—Local hospitals provide basic newborn training classes. Whether that is diapering, bathing, infant behavior, sleep patterns, recognizing illness, or comforting techniques.

3. Know your duties

Just as no two families are the same, no two nanny jobs are exactly alike. Understanding a family’s unique needs is the key to becoming a successful nanny. From there, you know how to best use your skill set to nurture, care for, and manage childcare. Here are some typical duties:

  • Attending to each child’s safety and needs.
  • Planning and providing developmentally appropriate play and learning activities for children in and out of the home.
  • Providing intellectual stimulation and helping older kids with homework.
  • Providing necessary transportation to school and activities.
  • Reinforcing the family’s rules and discipline techniques for the children when appropriate.
  • Meal planning and preparation for the children.
  • Basic household management related to the children, such as doing their laundry and keeping their belongings clean and organized.
  • Traveling with the family.

There’s a new family that can’t wait to meet you.

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4. Explore nanny specializations

There are several specialties—in addition to a general nanny who cares for one or more children. Specialty jobs typically require more experience and training and, therefore, offer higher pay.

A newborn nanny focuses on caring for infants during their early months. A multiples nanny specializes in looking after twins, triplets, or other multiples. Many families are also in need of nannies with in-depth expertise in caring for children with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, or developmental and physical disabilities.

Alternatively, you can explore opportunities as a temporary nanny, providing short-term or sick care. 

5. Understand compensation

Nanny salaries vary based on location (bigger cities tend to pay higher wages), experience, job duties, and the number of children. An INA Salary and Benefits Survey shows that live-out nannies who work part-time are paid, on average, an hourly rate of $7.25 to $20 or more per hour. Full-time, live-out nannies earn a weekly salary of $350 to $1,000 or more. To see what caregivers are making in your area, view UrbanSitter’s latest child care pay rates survey. How often you are paid can also vary significantly based on the type of job:

  1. Live-in nanny jobs: Receive a weekly or monthly salary, often including accommodations and meals, as they reside with the family.

  2. Live-out nanny jobs: Typically paid an hourly wage for the hours they work and may be eligible for overtime pay if they exceed a certain number of hours.

  3. Summer nanny jobs: Compensation varies, with some receiving a fixed salary for the summer or an hourly wage, especially if the position involves extended hours or travel.

  4. Travel nanny jobs: Receive a combination of their regular salary and compensation. Travel-related expenses like lodging, meals, and transportation are typically included.

  5. Night Nanny Jobs: Night nannies who assist with infants during nighttime hours may be paid hourly, on an overnight basis, or receive a fixed fee for the entire night.

Finding the Nanny Job That’s Right For You

A nanny job can be a rewarding, fun experience that provides you with the opportunity to have an impact on a child’s life. To find a nanny job that is right for you, have open and honest conversations with potential employers about job duties and expectations to be sure you are in sync. A good rapport is also essential for success. In that case, relationship.

Let family and friends know you are available, check local job boards, or sign up with UrbanSitter. Create a nanny profile to showcase your skills, experience, and availability so you can easily connect with parents searching for child care.

You can browse nanny jobs on UrbanSitter to find job opportunities near you.

10 Fun Babysitting Games To Play On The Job

Finding the right activities to keep children entertained while babysitting can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. Engaging the kids in fun and interactive babysitter games is a great way to create a positive and enjoyable experience for you and the children.

From classic games to creative crafts, these ten babysitting games are perfect for building connections and ensuring everyone has a good time. Remember to consider the children’s interests and abilities before selecting a game. Here are some fantastic options to get you started.

1. Hide and Seek

One babysitting game that will win over the children you care for is hide and seek. This is an excellent indoor and outdoor activity that both older and younger children can participate in. Before you get started, establish ground rules. For example, you may require that everyone stay on one floor of the home, and the person only needs to be found rather than tagged. For toddlers, you may simply hide a specific toy and hunt for that item together. This classic game never gets old and is a fun activity that engages kids in active play.

2. Age-appropriate puzzles and Board Games

Chances are several puzzles and board games that children love to play are stored in a closet or cabinet in the home. They may jump at the chance to play with these puzzles with you. Before the parents leave, ask them where they store their puzzles and games and which are the kids’ favorites. Take it further; you could bring a few games and puzzles. Children with access to new activities are often more engaged and excited about participating. This is a great way to develop motor skills and cognitive abilities in a fun setting.

3. I Spy

This is a quieter game that almost everyone can participate in. Depending on the child’s age and abilities, you can tailor how challenging it is. It can be played outdoors, when the weather is nice, or indoors. An alternative is to bring a search-themed book with you. Since these books are usually more challenging, they are better for older children. “I Spy” is a simple, interactive game that helps improve observation and language skills.

4. Freeze Dancing

Whenever you are looking for a fun, active babysitting game that will help children burn off some extra energy, freeze-dancing is a perfect idea. You turn on age-appropriate music. You and the children can do silly dances while playing a favorite children’s tune. When the music stops, everyone will immediately freeze in their exact position. This can add a funny balance challenge depending on the dance move that is happening when the music stops. This game is lots of fun and great for developing coordination and rhythm.

5. Simon Says

This classic babysitting game is perfect for kids of all ages. The rules are simple: you give commands starting with “Simon says,” and the children must follow them. If you don’t say “Simon says” first, and a child follows the command, they are out of the game. This game is fun and helps improve listening skills and attention to detail.

babysitter games, nanny games, babysitter puzzles, babysitter activities

 

6. Paper Plate Ring Toss

For this game, you’ll need a few paper plates and household items to use as stands, such as paper towel rolls or empty cans. Cut the centers out of the paper plates to create rings. Then place the paper towel rolls or cans at varying distances and let the children try to toss the paper plate rings onto them. This game is perfect for developing hand-eye coordination and is a fun indoor activity that can be set up quickly.

7. Scavenger Hunt

Create a list of items for the children to find around the house or yard. These can be everyday household items like a piece of paper, a kitchen object, or even a tennis ball. Give them the list and set a timer. The child who finds the most items within the time limit wins. Best of all, this fun indoor or backyard game can be tailored to different age levels and is an interactive way to keep kids engaged and moving.

8. Charades

Charades is a fantastic interactive game that can be played with children of various ages. Write down different actions or items on paper, and have the children take turns drawing a piece of paper and acting out what’s written without speaking.  For children who aren’t old enough to read, you can substitute words on the paper with simple sketches of objects or actions. The other children must guess what the action or item is. This game is great for encouraging creativity and teamwork.

9. Indoor Bowling

Set up a makeshift bowling alley using household items like empty water bottles as pins and a regular-sized ball. Let the children take turns rolling the ball to knock down the pins. This indoor game is perfect for rainy days and helps improve coordination and motor skills.

10. Craft Activities

Finally, engage the children with some fun and easy craft activities. You can use basic craft supplies like construction paper, plain paper, colored paper, and markers. A straightforward idea is to make pet rocks using smooth stones, paint, and googly eyes. This activity allows children to express their creativity and is a calm, relaxing way to spend time together.

Engage with Other Exciting Sitter Games & Activities

Some babysitters will bring a bag of games, books, and other activities, and others will use the items inside the home. When you actively play with the children you spend time with on your babysitting jobs, you can develop great relationships, keep them entertained, and pass the time constructively. Want more ideas? Here are even more babysitting activities to do. Jokes, too, are a hit with children!

Looking for babysitting jobs or nanny positions? Join UrbanSitter to create a free profile and search for jobs.

Ideas for Babysitter Activities with a School-Aged Child

kids baking cookies with sitter

Hiring a babysitter for a school-age child is often met with some anxiety on both sides unless there are activities planned. The child wonders if the babysitter will make him eat his broccoli and the babysitter hopes against hope that the child is more spunky than sulky. What resources do you have to combat this situation?

Activities to do with kids appropriate for their age:

Ask their parents to pick the game, toy, or computer games they like playing the LEAST. You won’t have the disadvantage of repeatedly being asked to engage in a certain activity and the child will be happy an adult is taking interest in their neglected game or toy.

Have the child make his birthday list (or holiday list if it’s coming up). This is usually a huge hit. Take a plain old piece of paper and have the child write or draw their ultimate wish list. You can even use those umpteen catalogs that come in the mail for inspiration and/or art supplies — cut out what they want and paste on list. Voila!

Paper crafts for kids are among the most popular. If you are not super talented in this area (join the club), get online and look up some free kids crafts on Pinterest. Use the calendar for inspiration. Valentine’s Day? Make paper hearts from coffee filters! Columbus Day? Make a native American headdress from construction paper!

Easy games for kids involving hiding things. Hide a few objects around the house or in the yard and send them hunting. Give them a bag or basket and they’ll be even happier. For older children, make a treasure map. A meticulously-detailed map with clues along the way (akin to a scavenger hunt) will engage them for a while. Perhaps the winner gets to pick the bedtime story or an extra marshmallow in his hot cocoa.

UrbanSitter is ready when you are! Find a local babysitter through people you know and schedule jobs online in minutes.

10 Babysitting Tips to Make You the Best Sitter Ever

nanny share

The best babysitters in your area have regular clients, earn a great hourly rate and take pride in what they do. The good news is that elevating your level of service may be easier to do than you may think. Incorporate these tips our sitters tell us makes them successful in your efforts to be the best babysitter ever.

1. Be Reliable.

The most valued quality a babysitter can have is reliability. Being on time, if not early, goes a long way and is appreciated by parents. Ensuring that parents trust you will help with earning regular gigs.

2.  Ask Questions.

Whether you are on the phone discussing a job possibility or you are receiving instructions before the parents leave, ask as many questions as you need to. Some babysitters assume that parents will think that they are inexperienced by asking questions, but most parents prefer that you have all of the information that you need to keep their children safe.

3. Obtain Certifications.

If you have not already obtained your CPR certification and taken a babysitter training class, now is the time to do so. You have to be prepared for all possibilities when you are entrusted with the care of someone else’s children, and these training courses provide you with invaluable information and skills.

4. Understand and Enforce Rules and Limits.

As a babysitter, you are tasked with enforcing all of the parents’ rules and limits. Most parents may tell you about their children’s ploys and behaviors, and they will likewise tell you how you can overcome those issues and enforce the rules of the house.

5. Feel Confident About Reaching Out.

Parents understandably do not want to be bothered numerous times every hour with questions and feedback, but they do want their children to be safe and properly cared for. If you need to know where the extra diapers are or if the children need sunblock on before playing outside, you should feel comfortable reaching out.

6. Be Observant.

Your eyes should be on the children at all times. You also should be aware of the potential environmental dangers that lurk nearby. Take preemptive steps to avoid dangers.

7. Stick to the Routine.

The parents will provide you with a routine to follow, including times for meals and naps. Many parents follow a schedule at home, and they want you to stay as close to that schedule as possible. If you put children to bed an hour or two later than you should, you may not be called for a second job.

8. Interact with the Children.

Your primary job is to keep the kids safe and healthy, but you also need to keep them happy and entertained. Be respectful and firm, but also friendly and fun! If you babysit regularly, it makes sense to put together a bag of books and games that are ideal for all age levels. Before each job, you can fill your bag with age-appropriate items.

9. Choose Your Clients Wisely.

Many parents in your area are looking for a babysitter, but you do not have to accept every job that comes your way. If you know that children are unruly or if you feel uncomfortable about the ages or number of children, for example, you can turn down job offers.

10. Provide Honest Feedback.

At the end of each job, parents inevitably will ask how things went. Avoid simply saying that things went well. Instead, provide honest feedback about your challenges and how you handled things.

When parents are looking for a babysitter, they want the most qualified individuals who they know will keep their children safe and happy. When you apply these tips to your efforts, you may develop several regular clients.

How do you handle babysitting jobs where the parent is working from home?

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8 tried-and-true ways to provide child care and work together with work-at-home parents

Babysitting or nannying while parents are working from home can all too often become a case of ‘too many cooks in the kitchen.’ Children often want to stick close to mom and dad, and the sitter may struggle to distract them enough to give the parents some space. We asked UrbanSitter’s experienced babysitters for tips on how to navigate the nanny/parents relationship and provide exceptional child care while parents are home — here’s what they said!

1. Communicate
The only way to ensure that both you and the parent(s) are on the same page is to talk about it. “Before starting the actual sitting, I have a conversation with the parents about the developmental stages of their child,” says nanny Nadia Joseph. “I ask if I can make any suggestions and we go from there.” Open communication can be a way to encourage teamwork and set a standard for honesty for everyone.  You can say:

  • I’ve noticed as baby grows out of infancy she has become better at recognizing who her primary caretakers are. What are some ways we can work together to make sure she doesn’t get confused or upset when you are working from home while I take care of her?

This strategy worked for Joseph, who says that “while initially we had some pretty challenging situations, with major temper tantrums when kids heard or saw their parents, we agreed on a plan and strategies and the parents are on board.”

Looking for babysitter and nanny jobs? Create a free profile at UrbanSitter.com and start applying today!

2. Establish boundaries
“The best way to co-exist with a parent at home is to accept that there are boundaries,” says UrbanSitter member Christy Chan. When working with parents who are accepting of your role as a childcare provider, use this to your advantage. Use professional language to clearly establish what is and is not fair, and come to a common agreement. Examples may include:

  • Baby tends to get confused when he sees you coming in and out of the office during his playtime, which makes him fussy. We are going to stay in the living room and nursery today so that he doesn’t get mixed up. Would you mind if I got some one on one time with him?
  • When toddler has multiple people in her room shortly before naptime, she has a hard time falling asleep. Would you like to be in charge of putting her down today, or should I? We can take turns.

Babysitter Safiya Taylor has been able to use this technique well, saying, “generally the kiddos know that I am in charge once I show up, so they don’t really run off to the parents when they don’t get their way!” Sitter Dalia Cabrera Martinez agrees, stating that this type of sitting works best when “they usually close their office door and try not to come out unless they want to spend time with the kids.”

3. Say goodbye
Experienced nanny and mom Susan Malone says “learning to say goodbye happily” is crucial. In this case, you and the parent set the tone for the child, so cheerful goodbyes help to create an environment in which the child is happy to be in your care, even when their parent is also at home. Going through familiar goodbye routines can help the child understand the transition from being in the care of their parents, to being in your care, even if the mom or dad remains in the home.

4. Make it a game
Another tip when providing child care while parents are home, making a game out of goodbyes is a fun and helpful coping mechanism, generally best for older children. This method has worked for UrbanSitter member Dori Heather, who says that she and the children she take care of “make a game out of it somewhat,” with rules such as needing to stay quiet outside of the parents’ office door. You can make up the rules of the game as you go, with suggestions such as:

  • Asking the kids to be ‘as quiet as a mouse’ or to ‘tiptoe as softly as a cat’ near the area where the parent is working.
  • Pretend the floor is lava and the office space is a volcano, and thus off limits.

5. Take the kids outside
“I usually choose to take the child outside of the home, returning briefly for meals, naps, et cetera,” says baby sitter Ava Martinez. This achieves two goals: both bringing the child away from the immediate temptation of being with their parents, and engaging them in fun activities outside of the house, affording them opportunities to learn and to have fun. It’s a win win for uninterrupted work – the parents can concentrate on working from home and the babysitter can provide the child care without distraction.

6. Change as needed
As children grow older, their needs change. Whereas a toddler may not have a need to be close to their parent every single moment of a day, a breastfed infant must be in close physical proximity to her mother. Being respectful of both the parent and child’s needs is crucial. With new parents, sitter Alexandra De Martini suggests being “especially mindful of the mom or partner just starting back to work, as they might not be totally sure what they want and their needs will evolve over the next few weeks.”

7. Have fun with it
“My current nanny family, the dad works from home and honestly it doesn’t bother me whatsoever. We have an excellent relationship and he respects me as a nanny so I am never bothered! I act the same as if I were home alone,” says Pennsylvania sitter Caleema Lawler. Actively put work into establishing positive camaraderie with both the parents and children so that you all feel totally comfortable in each others’ presence. This can come in many forms—intentionally spending time together with both the parents and children together to get to know one another and having monthly scheduled meetings to communicate successes and issues are two suggestions.

8. Move on it it’s not right
If you are aware that babysitting while the parent works from home is something that you wouldn’t be comfortable with, move on from the opportunity. Instead, take roles that allow your natural talents to shine and leave these experiences to other sitters.

Looking for babysitter and nanny jobs? Create a free profile at UrbanSitter.com and start applying today!

6 Tips for Moving on After a Breakup…With Your Nanny Family

Leaving a family—whether it be on good or bad terms—can be one of the most difficult relationships for a nanny to navigate. Sometimes, it can feel less like leaving a babysitting job, and more like a breakup. You can make the transition easier by acting professionally in all of your interactions, being straightforward in your communications, and having the confidence to be secure in your decision. We asked UrbanSitter’s experienced nannies and babysitters to weigh in with their best advice. Following these tips can encourage a positive changeover for you, the children, and the family.

 1. Give two weeks notice
“I would give the family an appropriate amount of time so that they can find a replacement,” says Sacramento babysitter Morlyn Walker. Two weeks is the nanny industry standard, and offers the family enough space to make arrangements for when you leave.

2. Put in in writing
Writing an email ensures that you can clearly communicate everything you need to say. You can edit your thoughts until you’re sure they’re perfect. When dealing with sensitive topics face to face, families and sitters can freeze up and avoid the subject altogether. Emails can also be referenced if your departure turns into a game of ‘he said, she said.’

3. …but have a face-to-face conversation
That being said, talking about it in person will be necessary at some point. By sending an email primer, you’ve prepared the parents for the conversation. Sending a two week notice via email, then following up with a conversation in person can adequately prepare both you and the parent for the subject at hand. Having a conversation in person with the children present can be a good opportunity to share and reminisce about your favorite memories during your time working together.

Looking for nanny jobs? Create a free profile at UrbanSitter.com and start applying today!

4. Help find your replacement
UrbanSitter member Geraldine Ang says, “If I knew of a good fit, I’d refer the family to another sitter and offer help during the transition!” This gesture of goodwill can work wonders to make sure you maintain a good relationship with the family, as well as ensuring that the kids will be well cared for in the future.

5. …and train them
Dedicating time to making sure the new baby sitter knows the ropes shows your commitment to the kids. This may also be a rare opportunity to work side by side with another childcare provider and learn from each other.

6. End on good terms
Leaving on a job on good terms can open the doors to opportunities to use your experience there as references later. It can also help with hard transitions when leaving the kids that you’ve come to care about so deeply. If you end your professional relationship with no hard feelings, it opens the door towards possibly creating a friendship between you and your employers.

Try and approach leaving a job with respect for your employer, and respect for yourself. By following these simple tips, you can make your transition easier on everyone. Do you have any suggestions for leaving a babysitting family? Let us know!

Find great babysitter and nanny jobs with UrbanSitter!

How to Land Nanny Jobs

If you’re considering joining the ranks of the 1.3 million Americans who have careers in the field of child care, you may be in the market for a nanny job. Before you decide if a nanny job is right for you, make sure you understand the role and job expectations, and consider the skills and background required to be a top-notch nanny.

What is a Nanny?

A nanny is a child care specialist who works in a family’s home to provide customized, personalized care for children. A nanny job may be full or part-time, and may or may not be a live-in nanny arrangement. Nanny jobs require a love of children and genuine interest in their well-being, growth and development.

Nanny Background and Skills

Nanny job candidates typically have experience caring for children, either babysitting or caring for their own kids, or working with children as a teacher, counselor, nurse, or daycare provider. Typical core skills for a nanny job include dependability, emotional maturity, high-energy, and adaptability. You should have the ability to focus on a each child’s needs, provide a safe and stimulating environment, and remain patient and calm under pressure.

“In addition to understanding how to protect and enrich the lives of the children in their care, a professional nanny needs to be able to communicate effectively with his or her employers,” says Marcia Hall, first vice president for the International Nanny Association (INA). “Good nannies excel at caring for children, the great ones can also interact with the child’s parents with ease and honesty.”

Nanny Training and Certification

While there is no formal training required for a nanny job, there are many specialized classes and certification programs that will help you become a more knowledgeable caregiver, and make you more attractive to parents looking to hire a nanny. These include:

  • CPR and First Aid Certification— According to the INA nearly 83% of nannies are CPR and First Aid Certified. You can find a class for training and certification (certification typically lasts only two years, so you may need to be re-certified) through the American Red Cross, which also offers Water Safety Education classes; or the American Heart Association.
  • Early Childhood Development and Education—It’s difficult to care for a child and meet his developmental needs without an awareness of typical development. You can find a course at a local community college by searching the National Association for the Education of Young Children.
  • Newborn Care—Local hospitals provide basic newborn training classes to teach diapering, bathing, infant behavior, sleep patterns, recognizing illness, and comforting techniques.

Typical Nanny Duties

Just as no two families are the same, no two nanny jobs are exactly alike. The key to being a successful nanny is understanding a family’s unique needs and knowing how to best use your skills set to nurture, care for, and manage childcare so the family can function to the best of its ability. Here are some typical nanny job duties:

  • Attending to each child’s safety and needs.
  • Planning and providing developmentally appropriate play and learning activities for children in and out of the home.
  • Providing intellectual stimulation and helping older kids with homework.
  • Providing necessary transportation to school and activities.
  • Reinforcing the family’s rules and discipline techniques for the children when appropriate.
  • Meal planning and preparation for the children.
  • Basic household management related to the children, such as doing their laundry and keeping their belongings clean and organized.
  • Traveling with the family.

Nanny Job Specialties

There are several nanny specialties—in addition to a general nanny who cares for one or more children. Specialty nanny jobs, which typically require more experience and training, and therefore, offer higher pay, include a newborn nanny, who provides care for the first months of an infant’s life; a multiples nanny, who specializes in caring for twins, triplets or other multiples; a temporary nanny, who provides sick care or short-term backup care; and a special needs nanny, who has extensive knowledge and experience caring for children who need specialized care, such as those with ADHD, Autism Spectrum, or developmental or physical disabilities.

Expected Pay for a Nanny Job

Nannies salaries vary based on location (bigger cities tend to pay higher wages), experience, job duties, and number of children. An INA Salary and Benefits Survey shows that live-out nannies (nannies who do not live with the family) who work part-time are paid, on average, an hourly rate of $7.25 to $20 or more per hour. Full-time, live-out nannies earn a weekly salary of $350 to $1,000 or more. To see what nannies are making in your area, view UrbanSitter’s nanny salary survey.

Finding the Nanny Job That’s Right For You

A nanny job can be a rewarding, fun experience that provides you with the opportunity to have an impact on a child’s life. To find a nanny job that is right for you, have open and honest conversations with potential employers about job duties and expectations to be sure you are in synch. A good rapport is also essential for a successful relationship.

If you are interested in child care, but are not certain that a nanny job—which often requires a full or part-time commitment—is for you, you may want to consider babysitting opportunities, which offer excellent experience if you decide to pursue a career as a nanny at a later date.

To find babysitting and nanny jobs, let family and friends know you are available, check local job boards or sign up with UrbanSitter, which allows you to create a personal profile to showcase your skills, experience, and availability so you can easily connect with parents searching for child care.

You can also browse babysitting and nanny jobs on UrbanSitter to find job opportunities near you.

By Dawn Van Osdell, Contributing Writer for UrbanSitter

10 Reasons Why College Students Should Consider Babysitting Jobs

These days, college students are working harder than ever to supplement the exorbitant cost of their education. If you are one of them, a babysitting job could be the perfect solution. Not sure it’s for you?

Here are 10 reasons why you should consider a babysitting job as a valuable moneymaking opportunity:

  1. Flexible Scheduling

You can work around your schedule, rather than build a schedule around your work. It can be hard to find a part-time job that fits around the 15-credits per semester class load required to complete your degree in four years. Babysitting jobs are flexible. You babysit when it works for you.

  1. Good Pay

Babysitting jobs pay well. Forbes Magazine reported on a list of Top 10 Jobs for College Students put out by salary listings website PayScale. Nanny—a demanding, often more time-intensive babysitting job—was the #3 most lucrative job for college students. The site noted the “best potential perk” of the job as the ability to carve out extra study time while the kids are napping. Check out UrbanSitter’s nationwide survey to see what babysitters and nannies are making in your area of the country.

  1. Resume Building

It’s great experience, whether your major involves children in any way or if you intend to have some of your own someday. Babysitting jobs are also great for showing initiative, responsibility and dependability. Future employers will take note.

  1. There’s a High Demand for Holidays and Weekends

You have the time! Many babysitting jobs are available when you have the most time to work—weekends, holiday breaks, and summer.

  1. rp_IMG_7378-300x199.jpgSteady Work

A study conducted by Citi and Seventeen Magazine shows that money-related issues top students’ list of biggest concerns while in school. You always need cash! Why not get your name on a few parents’ speed dial lists, so you’re a first call when they are ready to spend on childcare?

  1. You’re Well Qualified

If you’re reading this, you likely have a bit of babysitting experience under your belt, maybe sitting for a neighbor, helping out with your own siblings, or serving as a summer nanny to help pave the way to college. In addition to childcare experience, you may have taken the time to get CPR certified, completed a first aid class, or studied a bit of early childhood education.

  1. Mentorship

You have a lot to give! In addition to being available, responsible and ready to earn, you’re a vibrant student of the world with lots of interests, hobbies and experiences. Babysitting jobs give you a great outlet to share that experience with children who could benefit from your skills and mentorship. You can tutor, help with homework, share your soccer skills, or teach a young child to read and write.

  1. Easy Commute

There’s rarely much of a commute. There are plenty of families with young children living near campus who are ready to take advantage of your service. You can pick and choose babysitting jobs that fit your needs and possible limitations, such as choosing jobs that are on the bus route or within walking distance if you don’t have a car.

  1. You Have Backup

You can likely find a replacement if a conflict comes up or you come down with the flu. If you are interested in babysitting jobs to make extra money, your friends are, too. Although parents hiring sitters need someone who is dependable, it’s nice to be able to call a friend to cover for you if ever the need be.

  1. Great Networking

It’s the job that keeps on giving. Good babysitters are hot commodities for any parent. Take good care of their children, show responsibility and reliability, and your employer will not only continue to call you to fill a babysitting job, they’ll likely be more than happy to refer their friends to you for days and times when they don’t need you. With a little effort, you can build quite an employment network, and in return, become a go-to resource for parents needing babysitting.

Are you sold on the idea and wondering how to score these great gigs? Let your neighbors, family and friends know you are interested in babysitting jobs, post your availability on a campus or local job board, or use an Internet service like Urbansitter.com to connect with parents who are looking for childcare. UrbanSitter allows you to post a profile, list your preferences, and even provide your availability so parents can immediately see when you are available to work. If you are trustworthy, dependable sitter material, there are plenty of parents who are looking for you now.