Depends if you want/can afford a professional, or not.

Hi OP - I just posted on sittercity and care.com for a 25-hour a week job (Monday to Friday) with guaranteed hours at $18/hour for my two preschoolers. 10 PTO days for the year. No housework required, but was clear that I want someone who will engage with my kids and who is active and creative. I was overwhelmed with responses within 24 hours. Wedding through them now.

First-time mom here, with a baby who will need part-time care (3 days, 24hrs/week) starting when she is about 3 or 4 months old. What is the standard for packages offered to part-time nannies (as opposed to full-time nannies) in terms of sick leave, vacation, guaranteed pay, overtime, etc? Also, what kind of pay range is fair/competitive in NW DC? Does that change if it's a share? Thanks!