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Paid childcare

Discuss everything related to paid childcare here, including childminders, nannies, nurseries and au pairs.

How much should a 15 year old ask for, for babysitting?

35 replies

Kittlewittle · 06/11/2025 07:23

My 15 year old daughter is keen to babysit. It would be for neighbours, and one of her parents would be on hand if needed. How much would be a reasonable rate to ask for, for watching generally sleeping children?

In case it matters we are in central London.

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elliejjtiny · 06/11/2025 08:34

I think 15 is too young IMO

Meredithspants · 06/11/2025 08:31

If she’s not entertaining kids I’d say a block price for a set amount of time rather than an hourly rate. So £20 for 3 hours or £25 for 4. She can chill and watch her phone…

Kittlewittle · 06/11/2025 08:30

KindleKlub · 06/11/2025 07:38

I go by appropriate NMW

There isn't one for under 16s!

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KindleKlub · 06/11/2025 07:38

I go by appropriate NMW

JadeSquid · 06/11/2025 07:31

£10ph

WinterBerry40 · 06/11/2025 07:30

I could be way off ( and my kids are grown enough to not need ) but as you said neighbours so they are known to you and her , no travelling , maybe for 2/3 hours £25

Kittlewittle · 06/11/2025 07:29

Loopytiles · 06/11/2025 07:27

It’s too young IMO, and unlikely to be in a strong position ask for much pay at all if there was a need for her parents to be on hand. If the DC she’d be caring for aren’t under 4 or 5 it could be a good way to get experience that helps her get ahead for when she’s 16+

There isn't a need for us to be on hand, but we would be local.

She is sensible and has plenty of experience with watching siblings, including taking one to school and back on the tube.

OP posts:
Loopytiles · 06/11/2025 07:27

It’s too young IMO, and unlikely to be in a strong position ask for much pay at all if there was a need for her parents to be on hand. If the DC she’d be caring for aren’t under 4 or 5 it could be a good way to get experience that helps her get ahead for when she’s 16+

Kittlewittle · 06/11/2025 07:26

FeatheryFlorence · 06/11/2025 07:25

DD1 used to get £10 an hour about 10 years ago.

Thank you, what age was she? I am wondering if she would offer lower rates to build clientele given her age.

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FeatheryFlorence · 06/11/2025 07:25

DD1 used to get £10 an hour about 10 years ago.