No this isn't a post about any plans to add to our family right now. Our frosties are still chilling and will continue to do so for another year or two until we decide what to do with them.
This is more of I'm contemplating watching my friend's little girl, L, (5 months old) a couple days a week for a couple of hours. I kind of already told her I would give it a try. I'm nervous at the idea. A 5 month old and two 7 month old babies for even a couple hours a day may be enough to make me a little crazy. But they are still working out the details as to if this is doable by her sister-in-law (who watches L for the first part of the day). I agreed to try it for a couple of weeks to see how it goes and then if it doesn't go well to give them another couple of weeks to figure something else out (so trying it for a month).
Am I insane? I feel a little bit crazy. But then I think I've learned to juggle two pretty easily so what is the harm in adding one more on for like 4 hours a week. We'll see if my easy going attitude sticks once it actually moves forward. I'm also a little bothered at the aspect of doing this in a "free of charge" kind of way. There wasn't really a mention of paying me. I figured once they solidified the plan that they would offer at least. We were all out together the night she asked me. My DH brought up something nicely about compensation and it was basically a "we'll watch your kids whenever you need it" deal. Hmmmmm...I don't know. How often do I actually see us asking them to watch the girls? (they are usually the ones we would be going out with). I know her family (sister-in-law and mother) watch L for free but is it right to expect the same out of a friend?? (no matter how good of a friend it is). Especially a friend who definitely already has her hands full. And then there is the possibility that we are going to be strapped for money for a while. So we might really be able to use a little cash flow (even a very small amount) in anyway we can get it.
Would you do this for a good friend for free? Would you expect some form of payment? If so, how much and how would you tactfully bring this up? Is it even manageable for one person to take on 3 babies this close in age? I don't want any of them to suffer because my care is stretched too thin. I'm not talking like drastic suffering as I wouldn't dream of that but just lack or less of attention for L and then less attention for my girls who already share me. Blah! Why can't I just have a clone of me?
5 comments:
Whatever you decide it will be the right decision...but maybe with a wee bit of crazy! LOL...take care!
I watched a former co-worker/friend's baby for a couple months (everyday, all day though) and she paid me. It was not much by any means (I think $20/day), but she didn't expect me to do it for free. If this a regular babysitting thing (weekly for indefinite weeks), I think she should pay you something. Doesn't sound like an even exchange to me. Not sure how to bring it up without knowing your friend or your relationship. You are SUPER MOM, so I know you can handle 3 babies! :)
Thanks ladies. It hasn't been brought up again yet so maybe when the details come up I will discuss some payment. I don't want much at all but I think free is just taking advantage of me. And I don't see them watching our girls much (if at all) so letting them know if they do I would expect to compensate them the same.
Is it a bit crazy? Yes, watching 3 babies would be a bit crazy. I must admit, with my two I couldn't imagine adding a 3rd to watch. Then again, what is another drop of water in the ocean, right?? :D However, if anyone can do it, you can!
As far as compensation goes, I hope your friends consider what they are asking of you. I'm sure you make taking care of multiple kids look easy, but there is a GOOD reason that childcare is quite expensive. Its hard work!!
Thanks Brenda. Drop in the ocean (I hope) will be how it will feels. Amen to the hard work and thanks for your opinion on if it's overkill :)
Post a Comment