Pay church members for babysitting?

[1healthylady]

An older couple at church has been offering to babysit from the time Elissa was born. They're finally getting the chance. Should I pay them? It's such an awkward topic.

From the phone.

[Erinne]

I'd offer, and when they refuse, you could get them a small gift as thanks.

[Heather8183]

Yeah, I'd at least offer. Or when you drop her off/the get there, I'd say something along the lines of "let me know what I owe you, I got cash at the ATM today"

[luvmygirls]

Originally Posted by Heather8183 Yeah, I'd at least offer. Or when you drop her off/the get there, I'd say something along the lines of "let me know what I owe you, I got cash at the ATM today"

[Fishie Kisses]

definitely offer. They will almost certainly refuse, and like a pp suggested, get them a gift as a thank you.

[Icryinbaseball]

I always offer 3 times as a rule before drop off and at pick up time. I got burned before. I had asked some of my neighbors to watch my kids for me a couple times. I offered money each and every time, and the both refused it. After about 5-6 times I quit offering. Then they called me over one day and told me they were tired of me using them as a free babysitter, and that is wasnt fair that I didnt give them money. They told me to go mooch off someone else.

[november]

Definitely offer!

Sent from my ADR6400L using DS Forum

[*KaiMom*]

YES!!! Anyone who babysits should get paid! If they wont take money you could bake them a nice goody or something.

[Only]

Originally Posted by Kason's mommy I always offer 3 times as a rule before drop off and at pick up time. I got burned before. I had asked some of my neighbors to watch my kids for me a couple times. I offered money each and every time, and the both refused it. After about 5-6 times I quit offering. Then they called me over one day and told me they were tired of me using them as a free babysitter, and that is wasnt fair that I didnt give them money. They told me to go mooch off someone else.

Wtf. I hope you TP'd their house using toilet paper bought with all the rejected baby sitting payments.

OP, I would definitely offer. If they decline thank them enthusiastically for their generosity and kindness.

[doodah]

its fine too if they do expect payment. having a trust worthy sitter is well worth the price! i would offer and be fine if they accept or if they decline. sometimes people offer so much because they do love kids and they do want to earn a little extra money doing something they already enjoy.