Does it seem like abad idea if I become a babsitter to another child (Im a stay home mom with a 2 year old)?

Question

I would like to have some extra money, so I thought this might be an idea. I have a suite downstairs in my house that I could use instead of the upstairs...good idea or not? What should I charge I live in Edmonton Alberta.

Answer 1

It sounds like a wonderful idea. I would call around in your area and check out at least 3 daycares to find out what they would charge to watch a 2 year old. Don't tell them it's for your own daycare business. Just make it sound like you want to put your own child in. I would take the 3 prices and get an average and charge that. Less if you want to give a discount. Good luck and God bless!

Answer 2

I feel it is a good idea, because it will allow your child to have playmates, as well as giving you extra income. You are already preparing snacks and lunches, etc. for your child-- it is not much more to just make an extra portion or two. So it will not mean much extra work for you.

Just make sure that you charge what others charge. Every area is different- right now I charge 10 dollars an hour as a babysitter/part time nanny, but depending on the financial situation of the parent(s), I sometimes go lower or higher.

Just make sure to have set guidelines (for example, they provide the snacks, juices, diapers, wipes, etc. or compensate you for providing those items), and they pick the child up at predetermined times and get charged extra if they are late without fist calling you to let you know -- that way you have a set time to be "off the clock" and get compensated if they are lax in being on time.

But I feel it would be a great idea, for both you and your child.

Good luck!

Answer 3

I think it is a fine idea, as long as you think you can handle two children at once without getting overwhelmed or exhausted. Maybe you can do a free trial period with a friend's child before you commit to actually doing it for pay. If you do enjoy it, that is a great source of income for a stay-at-home mom. As for the charge, I live in America, so I don't really know about Canadian money, but over here I would say the standard rate people charge for the type of service you're talking about is maybe $7 or $8 U.S. dollars per hour, or you could do a flat weekly rate of $300 U.S. dollars, depending on how many hours you would be babysitting for.

Answer 4

This is a great way to earn money and stay at home with your child at the same time. I did this when my daughter was small (about 12 years ago). It's probably within your best interests to run your business through a dayhome agency, as they will ensure you are running everything legally. There are many aspects that could be overlooked otherwise. They will also help you with what to charge in fees in order to be properly competitive and not shortchange yourself, or to overcharge clients. Good luck, hope it works out for you!

Answer 5

I've often thought of doing the same thing BUT then re-thought it because I would become even MORE tied down than if I were to stay home with just my kids.

I too live in (southern) Alberta and I recently heard from a friend that 'her' friend pays $1600/mo for her two kids for JUST before and after school care!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THAT is alot of money!!!!! Call on some adds in your local paper for "day home" providers and ask what they charge.

mb

Answer 6

It's a great idea for a stay-at-home mom. My mother did it when I was growing up, and my boyfriend's sister does it now that she has a baby. I would find out what everyone else in your area charges per day, then advertise it for a little less so you can be sure to have plenty of prospective business.

Answer 7

I'm not sure what the going rate is in your area, but that is one way to stay home and make a little extra money. I had to replace my income when my job got outsourced so I looked at quite a few things to do in my home. I looked into opening an in home day care, but there was licensure issues in the state that I live in, so I didn't pursue it. If you want to hear about what I found that is working for me, just email me at: [e-mail]

Answer 8

Its called Daycare. Many moms do it. Call other home daycares and see what they charge. You'll need a license though and an inspector needs to come out to make sure you're home is safe. But its a good way for stay at home moms to make extra money.

Answer 9

sounds like a good idea...your kid will have someone to play with. My only advice is make and sign a contract. The other mom may be your friend right now but who knows what could happen later....i watch alot of Judge Judy

Answer 10

i dont know the going rate in your part of the country, but i dont think its a great idea .because your child at two might fell a litle neglected with you being occupied by another child and two is the age where they learn alot and their personality starts to form. my wife tried it and my son was not very accepting of the invaers in his space.