Finding an Overnight Babysitter and/or Afterschool Caregiver

[Anonymous]

My husband and I need to take some much-needed vacation time away with just each other. Unfortunately we don't have family in the area to watch our child while we go. Does anyone have any advice or insight into how to find a reliable trustworthy person for this kind of babysitting? I'd like to have someone that might also be available to help a few days a week with watching my child (she is 5) after school and helping around the house (light housekeeping, cooking). That way I wouldn't be leaving my child with a total stranger.

We don't have a nanny now. Could someone like that also be an overnight sitter? Or are they two separate jobs completely? And what would be the best way to find this kind of professional?

I've never hired a nanny before, so this is all new to me. Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

Yes the afternoon nanny can watch your child overnight, if your child isccomfortable and the nanny is free on those nights. If you hire a nanny who has a child it may not work or someone who is taking classes at night.

What area are you in?? There are agencies all over. There are also online sites like care.com and sittercity.com

Do you have set hours? And would it be every day (Monday-Friday)?
What rate are you considering? Benefits? If nanny has to pick up child from school does the nanny use her car? So you'll pay mileage. Or is there a nanny car?

As far as over nights- there have been threads on this. Quick top answers have been nanny gets hourly rate for all awake hours and a flat rate ($50-100ish) per night.

[Anonymous]

I have been doing overnight and long-term "vacation by parents". I have stellar references. Could you forward an e-mail address or phone #. I will be happy to discuss the subject with you or meet with you. Thanks, D