You know you’re expected to tip waiters, bartenders and taxi drivers, but what about the other people who make your life go smoothly? Your babysitter is one person who may deserve a little extra now and then.
Although tipping your sitter is not required, there are a few situations where adding something onto your fee could be beneficial for your babysitter and for you.
1. Going above and beyond
All sitters are not created equal. Some interact and entertain the kids while others do all of that and more. If your babysitter does more than expected (handles household chores, folds laundry, takes the kids to ballet class, deals with unusually rambunctious kids, etc.), it’s a good idea to add more to their pay.
Adding a little extra (think an hour or so) onto a hero babysitter’s pay packet can let them know how much you value them – and send you right to the top of their client list, so you get dibs on their time when you need them.
2. Dealing with an unexpected situation
If something happens that is beyond your control, and the sitter steps up to the plate, a tip is a good way to say thank you. For example, if you come home late, the power goes out or your child gets sick all over your sitter, a few extra dollars might be warranted.
3. Stepping up last minute
It can be extremely difficult to find a good sitter under normal circumstances. When there’s an emergency and you need one on a whim, it’s good to have a reliable resource. Adding up to 20% more onto their fee can help sweeten the deal and secure childcare in a sticky spot.
4. Building a relationship
A gratuity is a great way of showing your gratitude. Tipping can help build a warm and appreciative relationship with your babysitter – which will make them look favourably on you next time you need them. Got a favourite sitter? Make them want to sit for you again and again.
If you’re working with a new sitter who is particularly good and you want to keep them, a tip may be a good way to show you appreciate their expertise and rapport with your children. If you’re not sure how much to tip, simply rounding up the amount you owe is your best bet. For example, if your sitter’s total fee for the night is $36, round it up to $40.
5. Caring for a large group of children
Make sure to check with your babysitter first if you’d like them to look after a large group of children. If your kids’ cousins, friends or neighbours are going to be at your house, it’s common practice to add extra to the hourly rate. (Care.com’s Babysitter Calculator can help you determine a rate for your area and the number of children.)
Discuss the rates beforehand, or add a little extra to the payment at the end of the night. If more than five kids will be present, consider hiring an additional babysitter to make sure that everyone is properly supervised.
6. Babysitting during the holidays
If you have a sitter who works for you regularly, it’s common to give a tip during the holidays — an average night’s pay is common.
If your sitter is also caring for your kids on or around a holiday (like Christmas or New Year’s Eve), you should pay extra for the prime slot.
Although it isn’t necessarily “normal” to tip your babysitter, it is an excellent way to show how much you appreciate them. After all, they’re providing you with a valuable service – and what’s more precious than your children’s wellbeing?
