There are several factors you should expect to impact the rate of pay. Once you've figured out the basic pay rate, see the following information to help you adjust the rate as needed.

Amount of childcare

• Do you need a caregiver full time, part time, or just for occasional help?
• If it's part-time, is it for the same days and times each week?
• Is the job during the week, on weekends or some of each?

Location

• Major metropolitan areas tend to have higher childcare rates than rural areas.
• Suburbs can also have much higher sitting rates than rural areas, especially if they serve a large commuter population and are near a major city.

Number of children

• Keeping an eye on 1 child is a lot different than watching 2 or 3 or more kids. Pay should reflect this. Your babysitter or nanny needs to control a larger group, deal with kids interacting with each other, and be more aware of group dynamics than if they're watching 1 child.

Additional responsibilities

• Most child carers are happy to help with household jobs, as long as it doesn't interfere with their caregiving.
• Asking your sitter or nanny to help with the laundry or to pick up groceries are examples of tasks that will definitely require extra pay. Expect to pay at least another $2 - $3 per hour in addition to the basic rate.
• Basic tidying up and getting the kids a snack are usually included in your basic rate - just be sure your childcare knows what your expectations are.

Transportation

• Is your babysitter or nanny required to drive the kids all over town for lessons or play dates? Is she using your car or hers?
• If she's using her car, you'll want to offer extra compensation for the gas she uses while driving the kids. If she using your car be sure you provide her with gas money if the tank needs filling. Some families offer their childcare mileage compensation if she's commuting a long distance.

Experience

• Experienced child carers get paid more than those with less experience. Paying more for experience can get you a sitter or nanny who can better meet your child care needs--and you get peace of mind too.

Qualifications

• If you have a newborn or twins (or triplets!), you'll want someone who has specific experience to match your needs. Expect to pay more per hour than the basic rate in your local area. It's worth it.