Should a babysit my friends kids?

Question

My Bestfriend of about 10 years is starting a new job that requires 2 weeks of training. Her husband is also starting a job as well. She has a 1 year old and a set of newborn twins… The problem is she says she will pay me but I know she can’t afford to because she has been struggling financially for the last year and she wouldn’t be able to pay me until she receives her first check so I’d be watching them for free  6 days a week , 8 hrs a day, for 2 weeks.  I offered to just watch the 1 year old because I feel like she would be the easiest but she told me I have to watch all 3. My mom is telling me that this is an awful idea considering I’m not used to children and she doesn’t want me bringing the kids to her house but I really want to help her out because she’s really been there for me.

Genie23 · Accepted Answer

You're such a true friend. The fact that you're willing to help her out even though you aren't used to having kids around and looking after them and you don't mind even though she can't pay as she's financially struggle. That's really sweet of you. If you have good amount of patience and don't need to work during the day or aren't currently working then I say go for it. It's just two weeks. You can do it. Just remember kids need constant attention, can be fussy about food and leave things lying around. If you can do that and are even willing to teach them things and all then two weeks won't seem like a long while to you, just find some activities that will entertain them or keep them occupied so they won't be running around all the time.

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

i agree with your mom. awful idea. they had the kids, they need to figure it out. i don't let people do this to me because once they do, they know how to manipulate you again and again to make you do things for them because you've already done it once (whatever it may be). she's going to have to figure this out with her husband. it's not your problem at all and you shouldn't feel like you have to.

one of them needs to talk to their jobs (probably the husband) to work around being flexible for a bit. who's to say this won't be forever with you watching them every single day? they have new jobs now... don't let them take advantage of you. please.

motownplayer2000 · Accepted Answer

On one hand, she is your best friend and that’s what friends are supposed to do. However, if something goes wrong with the kid, (they ingest something they shouldn’t, get lost, etc.. that’s on you). It is a lose lose for you. But I would agree with your mom. If you aren’t use to watching kids, you have no idea what you are in for. Also, new borns are absolutely easier than 1 years. That statement alone proves you probably shouldn’t be watching kids.

MementoMori777 · Accepted Answer

If you want but I would say don't make it a habit considering they will be paying you to basically raise their kids

jennifer_bloom · Answer

If you do not have other things taking up your time and you trust you could be a good babysitter, it would be a huge act of good will she might remember and one day pay you back for. I’m also religious and I believe every secret good deed is rewarded by God, even if all you did was sharpen an extra pencil for the kid your babysitting, God remembers every grain of dust in charity when he rewards you.

DizzyDesii · Answer

A 1 year old and twins? Nah. If the kid isn't potty trained, I won't be babysitting

GoodGuyBreakingBad · Answer

My late mom always babysat these kids that the parents were slackers when it came to paying, so the jobs were not worth it.

FreyaRed · Answer

This will be a hard job if you aren't accustomed with child care, especially those who still make in their pants. On the other hand it's not comparable with wage slavery in some corporation, this is 10 times worse.

Anonymous · Answer

If you aren't working and your friend has helped you out in the past and it's only for 2 weeks I would do it. You know your friend. Who knows in the future you may need help yourself and maybe your friend says no.

LiamJHayden · Answer

Bad idea. That is a lot of feeding and diaper changing.

Friendlybro79 · Answer

Not your responsibility unless you're paid well and not having to wait for money. Don't mix business with personal. My opinion of course.

the_sinner · Answer

If you’ve got nothing to do for 8 hours everyday and you get bored easily you can help out your friend. Otherwise I guess you’d be pretty worn out by the end of the day/week.