We never have babysitters. Not only do we hardly ever go out, we can't leave DS (age 7, various SN, v.high maintenance) with many people. Those people will be out with us as it's DS1 and DD's swimming club championships presentation night. Usually take DS to this each year but he ruins it with his behaviour and he's even worse these days so couldn't face it. It's DS1's and DD's night really and it will be lovely to be able to concentrate on just them.
So gave it some thought and remembered one of the helpers who has since left, from DS2's SN club he attends, wrote me a note when she left with her mob and home nos, offering to have DS2 (and DD as necessary) any time we needed a babysitter and saying how she'd miss working with him.
So I text her and she said yes straight away. She is a university student (left the club to concentrate on her studies) and in her late teens or maybe v. early twenties I think. She is fab with DS. She will arrive about 6, have to put DS to bed (he will be ready; have had medicines etc) and then bascially just sit downstairs until we get back about 11. She may have to settle him if he wakes but he doesn't usually start his night time waking routine until after midnight.
How much should we pay her please? We have no clue whatsoever. And we live in Kent.. so not London rates hopefully! (And are not at all wealthy.. quite the oppostite! In case that's relevant!)