|
I think that having her as a 'mothers helper" is a great idea. My mom used to have us do it for our younger siblings and she paid us. In our house, we did work because we were part of the family and didn't get paid allowance, but being paid for this helped us understand that we were comitted to helping her (not wandering off to our room) and we learned about having money and the value of things vs. how much work we had to do for it! We also got GREAT practice and were babysitting pro's by the end. I say ask her aparents and see if they are ok with it. It could help her feel grown up and that you trusted her.
Also, I don't let my friends pay me for babysitting. We trade baby sitting or do other favors for each other. For example, if one of my friends is watching my kids and they have older kids that I wouldn't need to watch as a trade, I will bring over dinner. Having not to make that meal is huge. Or I get them a book I think they might like or movie tickets. You could offer to pay if you want (it could show that you value their time) but if they won't let you, you can bring them dinner when you drop Bean off, or get her a gift certificate to a place for dinner and movie and offer to have a movie night w/ your daughter, etc. That is what most friends and families do, and that is what you are friends AND family.
Great question. My son's bio brother is 10 and would be a great babysitter. I would love to have him help me out in an ideal world. Our situation isn't exactly ideal, so cherish and enjoy the great relationship you have with her/them.
|