How Much to Charge for Childcare

Updated on April 28, 2009
K.C. asks from Naperville, IL
4 answers

I am going to be providing child care for an infant or a toddler and I have a 15 month old son. Can anyone tell me what is a fair rate to charge and what I should provide? (carseat, food, diapers?) I am hoping to watch the other child at my home, part time (3-4) days a week. I have a bachelor's degree in Design. I have taken a CPR and First Aid class and will be willing to get certified.

Any info would be very helpful!

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L.C.

answers from Chicago on

I have a 1 yr old son. My babysitter has watched him 5 days a week 10 hours a day since he was 3 months old. She charges me $40 a day. I provided the diapers, formula. Now that he is on milk she provides him food, milk, snacks everything. I only provide the diapers and $40 a day is very reasonable for what she provides for him....

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L.H.

answers from Chicago on

I pay $180 per child for 5 days, up to 10 hours a day. But my daycare is licensed. With that I can claim a portion of what I pay on my taxes. If you are not licensed, then they will not be able to claim, so I would suggest you charge less than that. I provide diapers and formula when they are an infant. When they start to eat regular food, my daycare provides. As for a car seat, that would be up to you and the parents. I personally like my daycare because she does not leave the house/yard with any of the kids, so there is no need for car seat. Good luck.

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J.E.

answers from Chicago on

Keep in mind that providing child care in your home requires a lot of thought and planning. It is a liability risk, too. If you plan on caring for more than 3 children including your own, you must have a license. Starting your license through DCFS is free, and by becoming licensed you can write off your business expenses on your taxes. (Including a percentage of your mortgage interest, utilities and food.) You can even get some money for the food you serve the children through the Child and Adult Care Food Program. Around my neighborhood the child care rate is about $150 per week and up.

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B.H.

answers from Chicago on

I had a part time nanny who came to my house and she charged $12 an hour - no driving and we provided all our sons diapers, food, etc.

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