Sensible 12 year old girl babysitting

[pingu2209]

I have had a note through the door from someone near by who is touting for babysitting work. She is 12 years old (13 before Christmas) and quite sensible. She has asked for day time babysitting work at £2.50 an hour. I am quite tempted to let her as I am going to have a big operation next week and think that I will need to rest, perhaps a sleep in the afternoons to get over my operation. However, am I correct in thinking 12 is too young and actually may be illegal?

[PerryCombover]

I was more sensible that many in their 20's by 12 and had had lots of experience of dealing with children

I babysat for loads of family members from 12 onward but wasn't paid until I was 13 as I needed to get the experience..this is true...exploited by my own aunties and uncles..ha
I'd leave my 12 yo cousin in charge of a 5yo but I know she is mature, experienced and I trust her.

Up to you

[JustFiveMinutesHAHAHA]

I think for what you want 'a wee mothers helper' and not for babysitting (leaving them in her care while you go out) she will be just fine. She'll get a little money and experience, you'll get a little rest and your kids will get someone new to play with win/win/win

[pengymum]

I think it is too much responsibility for a 12 year old that you & your children do not know. And I wouldn't be able to sleep in the circumstances! My 13 yr old is very good with younger children but I wouldn't let her babysit for an unknown family. Credit to the girl for her initiative but in this day and age, I don't think it it a good idea. Best get a responsible adult to help and that way you get a proper rest rather than sleeping half alert! An adult can take them to the park for a couple of hours and then you will def get a good rest!

[spiderpig8]

You would also be responsible for her well being too.

The fact that you are asking on here means you have doubts .

[MsGee]

To be honest I wouldn't go with an adult babysitter who just put a leaflet through my door. I'd want to know the person, check them out etc.

Also I think 12 is too young to deal with three children who are a handful.

Hope the op goes well and you get something sorted though.

[LoopyLoopsTootyFroots]

Personally (and I'm fairly laid back) I wouldn't have a babysitter who was under 18 for small children. Having said that, if you're in the house it might not be too bad an idea.

[LIZS]

I babysat at 12/13 but my charge(s) would usually be in bed. I'm sure htere are 12 yr olds up and down the country responsible for their younger siblings particularly at this time of year but I thnk this is a big ask of a non-related preteen child especially as you are likely to be be incapacitated. Do you know the child/family at all ?

[LolaRennt]

Why don't you have her over for a trial once while you're still totally fit and well? Itll only cost you 5 pounds and you can get some tidying batch cooking done for after it all kicks off anyway