Question

So a side hustle just fell into my lap today, starting next week I’ll be watching a girl (toddler) for 2-3 days per week at $45/day, I’m excited but nervous! I’m only used to looking after MY kids! Any advice?  

Answer 1

Be patient. Have crafts ready. Easy meals. And snacks lol

Answer 2

Get paid for the week in advance (yes, that means the first week they pay double) . Friday pays the following week. no pay, no play :) don't budge or you will be taken advantage of.  

Comments

@senghor832 gotcha! In my experience, it is always best to get paid in advance instead of someone owning at the end of the week :)

Answer 3

I do that every day! The brunette is mine, they're both a week apart in age. It's hectic but it helps!  

Answer 4

So, I have someone who watches my daughter and I pay her monthly too (the 1st because I'm only paid once a month on the last day). We don't have a contract and neither of us takes advantage of the other. Don't be frightened by some of these comments, you won't necessarily be taken advantage of! She watches her own foster son and another boy and they all love each other and play. She said it's actually easier to watch the 3 of them than just one lol

Answer 5

Have mom and her over got a few hours with your kiddo!  

Answer 6

I have never done this as I am not comfortable watching someone elee child but I know someone who did years ago. Get everything in writing. Be very clear on allgeries, dicipline, hours and allowed activities. Charge a week in advance and have a sick policy so your own child doesn't get ill. Are you providing food and diapers? Make sure if you do that is included in your charges. Be clear and consistant. As other people have said if you are not firm you will be taken advantage of. Its a business. Treat it as such.  

Answer 7

Following! I'll be watching a friend's kiddo soon, too.  

Answer 8

I watch 4 extras (6 months, 9 months, 3, and 18 months, plus my own 4 YO) It's not bad! Sometimes it gets EXTREMELY stressful when everyone wants help at once, but it passes. They all entertain each other most of the time. And all the parents are flexible as far as me setting a new daytime routine for them. They provide everything needed and then some! I let them all pay me the last day of the month so we can count the days actually worked. We live in a snowy winter area, and they're all teachers, so I don't want to deal with refunds or making up a paid day the next month if theres a snow day or sick day. I've never had a problem with being paid on time!  

Answer 9

Have fun! Take care of them as you would your own child.