We have an older friend who has begun to watch our toddler daughter informally. She is very natural and buys mostly items from tag sales and antique shops. What should I do for her to repay her for her time with our daughter? She also gives her small things each time we go to visit.
I forgot to mention- She just watcher her once last month for the first time for about 30 minutes as a test and all went really well. The thing I need to know is how much to get her for each hour?
Thanks, Mommas! She is of the older set- and I just realized last night that I should get her a massage from her friend who is a massage therapist. She also tries to help this woman out a lot, so it would make her doubly happy! Thanks!
Hmm... It depends on how older... but I don't know anyone who wouldn't appreciate a gift certificate to a massage parlor!!! :)
I just got a set of really beautiful reusable shopping bags. They are all different designs and bunch up really small. She might like something simlar.... Practical but because they are so beautiful they are extra special.
A nice plant or a pot of mixed flowers and herbs for outside.
A birdhouse for her yard.
Giftcard to Whole Foods or other natural grocer.
Giftcard to a local bookstore.
If your daughter is old enough why not cook something for her both of you?
Flowers, massage, an easter bag?
How much older is she? Alot of older people don't need more stuff. If she shops tag sales because she is on a budget, a gift card might come in handy. Or a luxury like a massage or pedicure could be something she would enjoy but never spend money on herself.
My mom is the hardest person to buy anything for, and she loves flea markets, antique stores...all of that. So a month or so before a big holiday or special occasion, I take her shopping to some of her fave places and sometimes even new ones. I keep an eye on what she looks at, what she seems interested in...usually one thing she finds and "talks" herself out of buying...then I go back and buy that for her.
Honestly, it started by accident and now I think she "talks" herself out of it on purpose....but it could work for you too. Invite her to go on a shopping adventure...
Does she normally live on her own? I think it might be nice to do a monthly/bi-monthly dinner date. You could either invite her to your place, or you could take her out. I'm sure she would love the company. :) (of course, I'm thinking senior citizen age here...)
Does she like tea? Maybe an antique teapot or something...
If she doesn't watch your daughter that frequently, a nice bouquet of flowers would probably be appreciated or maybe a gift card to her favorite restaurant.
As others have asked, how much older and does she live alone? I too was thinking senior citizen.
Does she need help around the house? Yardwork? Fix that pesky squeaky door? I'm also going to echo the taking her out to/inviting her over for dinner and/or a gift certificate for something she normally wouldn't get on her own (ie: professional massage, a manicure or even a movie).
We have a neighbor who pretty much keeps to herself, but still appreciates a little help. So 5 of us neighbors take turns mowing her lawn in the summer and shoveling the driveway in the winter.
Is she doing this as an occasional favor, or is this a babysitting arrangement? If it's babysitting, paying her appropriate. Ask her how much she charges, or find out what adult babysitters in your area get paid. If she does not want to charge you, buy her something like a giftcard to a restaurant, movie theater, etc. as a "thank you" gift for babysitting.
