Family Babysitting Maybe Not Working?

Good luck with that! I would not pay her anymore--tell her get a full time job and pay for her daycare for infant and see how much she makes! That is a good amount of money and I am sure it is tax free, I pay $600 a month for my 4yr old-at an at home preschool--(this is cheaper than normal) She could go 12 hrs a day if I needed--You are in a very tough position but your sister needs to know that she is a huge help and confort to you, but she shouldn't take advantage either. I think what your are giving her is perfect! You are in a tough position, but family is family and if they get mad --they will get over it. Take care!!

Well, cost of living is 3% I think. So for this year alone, that would be about $30 more per month??? But if you have never given her a raise in three years, that would be closer to $60? So I think you are on target to give $50 without increasing her workload.

The problem really sounds like the fact that you feel she isn't doing what is required of her. You simply have to have that discussion. Do you have any of this in writing? Might be a good idea.

I would also worry about her having a newboarn. And if that is her first child, she is not going to be able to watch your kids for a few months, right? That might be a good time to make a split. Also, do you trust her to give your children the same attention with one of her own?

Not really knowing the dynamics here - - She should have a raise over 3 years. But she should only keep her job if she is competent at it. If things are going okay, and you trust her, then you only have one year to preschool. Give her a well-justified raise (like cost of living) and stay with it for another year. However, I would make a rule that she must write down what chores she does to get the extra payment. If she folds laundry, she puts it on the list on your fridge, and you total it at the end of two weeks (each load is $5 of something similar).

what a tough spot :/ im having a hard time understanding why she's adding a kid to the equation but YOU have to pay more. i really don't have any good advice, but if you want to tell me what area of VA you're in, i can refer you to a wonderful woman who watched my children out of her home... i used to work with her daughter and have known the family for years. i say all this because i know it will be cheaper than daycare!!

Sounds like she is taking advantage of you and b/c she had a baby wants a raise. Life just doesnt work that way. I dont have any suggestions for care but there are a lot of good centers and individuals out there just check them closely.

Best Wishes!

A few things to consider...are you claiming the money you pay her for childcare on your taxes and is she reporting her income on taxes? If not, she is costing you money there because there are tax write-offs for your childcare expenses.

To be honest, what you are paying her is a very low price, depending on the hours you work. She is working as a nanny, as do I. I make $14/hour, and my employers withhold taxes and pay the employers contribution (medicare and social security). I take my son with me, and I supply all of his needs and most of the time my own food/drinks. But, since she is family, I can understand her accepting lower pay.

I would have put my foot down about the stuff she is supposed to do but doesn't since you are paying extra for it to be done. I would make this proposal: Pay her $1,050 per month for childcare plus gas and light housework (laundry, kitchen, vacuuming), createhave a schedule of when you expect things to be done (Mon: vacuum Tues: laundry Wed: kitchen...).

Communication is the key. Be upfront with her about your expectations and explain your concerns with her wanting more money while not fulfilling already agreed upon terms. Stress that you don't want to turn to daycare, but you are considering it.

.Call Child Care Solutions. They are a childcare agency located in Newport News that basis all needs around parents and they have childcare providers all over the Hampton Roads area. You can call them @ ###-###-#### or ###-###-#### or go to their website: www.childcaresolutions.biz

be blessed

If you are located in the State of Maryland, there is a free resource that will help you find child care for your children. "Locate" ~ if things don't work out with your sister. You are in a tight spot with family but you need to do what is in the best interest of your own family first. Good luck with everything as the situation continues.