When it comes to hiring a babysitter, one of the first questions parents typically ask is, “What do you charge?” However, many new sitters often struggle to provide a clear answer, often saying things like, “You can decide,” or “Whatever you think is fair.” While parents may appreciate the flexibility, a recent post by a savvy mom highlights a crucial lesson for young babysitters: the importance of asserting their worth.
In a thoughtful Facebook post, North Carolina mom Lisa Reynolds shared her experiences while searching for a summer babysitter. She and her husband, Tom, discussed their pet peeve regarding salary negotiations. “Tom and I were chatting about babysitting rates, and I mentioned I prefer to hear what the sitters charge first,” she wrote. “But too often, they respond with, ‘Whatever you want to pay is fine.’ That’s not okay!”
Reynolds emphasized that it’s vital for babysitters to confidently declare their rates and for parents to encourage them to do so. “Parents, let’s teach our daughters to state their rates and stand firm. A simple statement like, ‘I would love to babysit your kids, and my rate is X per hour,’ can go a long way. Practice that with her,” she suggested.
It’s a powerful notion considering that many young girls are often discouraged from advocating for their worth. Babysitting frequently serves as a girl’s first job, and helping them build confidence now sets the stage for future success, where they won’t shy away from asking for fair compensation.
Negotiating pay can be intimidating, even for adults. At 30, I still find it challenging to assertively communicate my desired pay. As a teenager, I certainly would have hesitated to state my worth. Yet, as Reynolds points out, that mindset needs to change.
Statistics from the Institute for Women’s Policy Research reveal that women earn roughly 79 cents for every dollar paid to men—a gap that widens for women of color. While learning to negotiate is just one part of the solution, it’s a significant step forward for many young girls.
Babysitting not only offers teens a chance to earn some extra cash but also introduces them to the world of work and financial management. As Reynolds rightly notes, we must equip our future babysitters with the skills to earn what they deserve, both in this role and beyond.
If you’re interested in learning more about family planning and home insemination, check out this informative resource on family-building options. For those looking to enhance their chances of conception, consider exploring fertility supplements from an authority on the topic.
In summary, teaching young babysitters to confidently declare their rates can empower them not only in their current roles but also in their future careers. As parents, we can help them navigate this essential life skill.