OK, here's the thing. My bdaughter is 13 now, which I think is not quite old enough to be a babysitter YET, but I totally trust her and think no one will love and care for Bean like his big sister, if DH and I need a sitter in the upcoming future.
She just loves him, wants to hold him, feed him, etc., but is (obviously) still inexperienced with babies. So I'm thinking of asking her to come over as a "mother's helper" for a few hours on weekends/in the evenings so she can get some practice in baby care and I can get some projects done.
Fellow parents, what do you think is fair to pay her? Since she won't be alone and I'll still have to "coach" her on diapering, feeding, etc., is $5 an hour OK to start? I was thinking of suggesting that we take an infant CPR class together (which I will pay for, naturally)...is this too pushy? Also, how old is old enough for her to begin watching him? She's a mature young lady, but I don't want to "push" her into something she's not ready for. How old are your teen babysitters?
Next, her mom also loves Bean. Right now, we're sans babysitter altogether. While we're not party animals by any means, there are times when DH and I need to do adult things on the weekends. I know she'd say "yes" to watching Bean (with K, of course) in a minute if she wasn't busy. I feel awkward about offering cash; should I anyway? If so, what's acceptable? If cash is weird (as I suspect), what can I offer in return for an evening's care?
Just looking for some suggestions and advice. I know this isn't "the norm" for many folks, so please, anyone...jump in!