The author said that many of the teens in her neighborhood are on her payroll. She prefers them over traditional childcare solutions.
Courtesy of Jenn Wint.
I joke that most of the neighborhood's teenagers are on my payroll, but it's almost true. I've gotten referrals from friends, approached them on the street, and asked teachers at the school for names of responsible students.In a family with two working parents, we need support. I'm self-employed, so my childcare needs are less traditional than the daycare we had when they were younger. Local teens and young adults are available, flexible, keen for cash, and more affordable than traditional childcare options. Many have also become meaningful and important peer role models for my kids.Filling the in-between childcare gapsThe flexibility and easy-going nature of teenagers is priceless. One teen walks the kids home from school twice a week. We text on a Sunday evening to determine which days work for both of us. Then after school on those days, my kids play in the park, hang around with friends, or go to the local library under the watchful eye of someone I trust. At 4.30 p.m. she brings them to the door and walks herself home. This costs me less than $15 an hour, and she has reliable weekly pocket money.Another older kid will often entertain my kids while I hide in the house on my laptop. This is wonderful when school is closed, there is an early dismissal, or I have late meetings. I'm home to manage any meals or emergencies, and the kids have a playmate who is dedicated to their enjoyment and far more willing to get into the paint and Play-Doh than I am.
