How much should I pay for child care in {{city}}, {{state}}?

The national typical hourly rate in 2024 is $22.50 per hour for nannies and $21.50 for babysitters. Rates can vary based on the child care provider's experience, certifications, employment status, and travel expenses. When calculating the cost of child care, you should also account for the number of children they'll care for and additional responsibilities like household tasks or homework help. Learn more about how to set competitive in-home child care rates for attracting the best babysitters and nannies.

How do I find child care for my kids in {{city}}, {{state}}?

The best way to find child care near you is to post a job detailing your needs on Sittercity, which will be shared with our community of available babysitters and nannies. We'll notify you when child care providers apply to your job, and from there you can proceed with interviews, background checks, and reference checks so you can find the perfect fit for your family.

What kind of child care providers can I find in {{city}}, {{state}}?

You can find experienced and passionate child care providers near you to provide the best care for your child, either in-home or virtually. Child care providers can help families with managing strict schedules, transportation to activities, homework help, last-minute coverage, date nights, and more. Whether you're looking for full-time, part-time, live-in, or temporary care, you can count on Sittercity for finding passionate and experienced child care providers.

Find experienced child care providers in Hardwick, MA

Q: How do families hire trustworthy child care providers in {{city}}, {{state}}?

Families find trustworthy child care providers on Sittercity who are passionate about providing safe and enriching care for their children. Many providers report they are First Aid and CPR certified to provide the best care for your family. Babysitters and nannies have the option to complete regular background checks, and you can easily request a recent background check if they don’t have one or it is not recent. Families can also request to see professional references! Our dedicated team also champions safety across our platform every day. Child care providers go through an identity verification process Berbix when registering an account. Some additional safety measures include Family Watchdog screening, babysitter and nanny reviews, and secure messaging.

Q: What’s the difference between a nanny and a babysitter?

Nannies and babysitters share the same primary responsibility of providing safe and enriching care for your child, but there are a few differences between them. Nannies are more commonly associated with regular work, whether full or part-time, offering daily or consistent care to a particular family. There are also several different types of nannies, including au pairs, house managers, doulas, live-in, and overnight nannies. Babysitters, on the other hand, are typically hired for irregular or occasional work, either full or part-time. If you’re looking for last-minute care for date night, or the occasional few hours after school, a babysitter is a great best option. Identifying the type and frequency of child care you’ll need is the best way to decide whether a babysitter or nanny is a better fit for your family.

Q: How does a child care provider interact with my child?

Child care providers on Sittercity love providing enriching experiences for your children, and sharing their passions with them. They're happy to participate in outdoor activities like sports, or indoor activities like music, baking, tutoring help, and art. Wherever your child's interests lie, child care providers on Sittercity can engage them in a nurturing way.

Last-minute, school and tutoring, date nights—find the right babysitters for you.

Get started

I need a child care provider

On a regular schedule On occasion

39 active child care providers near you

Average rate is $24.34/hr

140,000 5-star parent reviews

Trusted by

Find your child care in Hardwick, MA

Maureen M.

20 years paid experience
12 miles

$25–25/hr

Dear Families, I am an experienced child-care provider with a calm presence. For the month of July: consider hiring me for an occasional evening out. I’m working at a local horse barn during the day. In August, my schedule will open up on Tuesday and Thursdays .Please give me a call if you wish to discuss your child care needs. Sincerely~ Maureen McGarry

$25–25/hr

Recent review:

5.0

Melissa G.

Maureen was absolutely wonderful with our 2-3 year old, reliable and consistent for a regular sitting position over several months. Our daughter LOVES her, and so do we. We would hire her again in a heartbeat.

View Profile

Carmela S.

20 years paid experience
12 miles

$11–20/hr

My name is Carmela. I have worked as a profession nanny for several yrs working from ages from 6 months to 12 yrs old. I am also been a certified teacher in childcare for 13 yrs. working with infants as young as 6 weeks to pre school age of 5 yrs old and have CPR and first aid training. I am a very patient, nurturing, fun and creative person. I currently attend school part time mostly in the evenings and live in the Palmer area.

$11–20/hr

View Profile

Julia B.

6 years paid experience
14 miles

$15–22/hr

My name is Julia, I'm a psychology and Education studies double major with a data analysis minor at Wesleyan University. I grew up in Amherst Mass and am the youngest of 4. My hobbies include singing, writing, swimming, skiing, arts and crafts, playing with my dog, and watching my favorite show (new girl). I have 6 years of experience, and my own car! I was a varsity swim captain at my high school and I’m first aid and CPR certified.

$15–22/hr

Recent review:

5.0

Klarissa C.

Love loved having Julia take care of my kids! Will def use her again when I am in town!!

View Profile

Madelyn D.

7 years paid experience
14 miles

$25–30/hr

Hi!! I am located in Stoneham and have been working as a babysitter for 7 years now. I have worked with all age ranges from infant to pre-teen! Most recently, I’ve been a part-time nanny for two toddler girls and a morning helper for a 1 year old. I love doing crafts and playing outside with the kids. I’m comfortable driving kids if need be. :) Please reach out with any questions!

$25–30/hr

Recent review:

5.0

Graham C.

Madelyn is SUCH a great sitter. Our daughter, who can be really shy and scared of strangers, opened up to her immediately. She was never distracted by something else during her time at our house and was always talking to our daughter and engaging her, even before she could really say words. She's such a gem and we're so sad to leave the area because we can't have her all the time. The playroom was always clean at the end of their time together and she did a great job of changing diapers at the appropriate times.

View Profile

Pabla A.

5 years paid experience
14 miles

$25–40/hr

I love babysitting and working with kids. I think it's amazing to be able to help a child fulfill their potential, be it with school work or finally being able to build that perfect legos building. I've had a lot of experience with taking care of kids. I look after my cousins, age ranging from 2 years old to 12 years old, constantly.

$25–40/hr

Recent review:

5.0

David W.

Pabla I'd great with my baby daughter, who is excited each time she sees her. Pabla is organized and easy to communicate with, even showing me a calendar of her availability. She takes initiative with chores. Best of all she has warm and happy to engage with our whole family.

View Profile

Eileen F.

4 years paid experience
12 miles

$19–30/hr

In my time being a sitter, my favorite part has become the relationships I've built with kids and their families. I love to offer convenient, reliable, and safe care for any family in need of an extra set of hands!

$19–30/hr

View Profile

Jeannne R.

15 years paid experience
14 miles

$25–25/hr

I am a retired healthcare manager who has raised 2 children. I am currently watching a 22 month old and have taken care of him for a year. I am patient, fun ,creative and energetic. I am very trustworthy and warm. I am babysitting because I love children and am supplementing my retirement income.

$25–25/hr

View Profile

Catey C.

2 years paid experience
13 miles

$17–25/hr

Hi! My Name is Catey Hayden. I worked at The Goddard School in Worcester, MA for two years. I’ve worked with all ages, infant + toddler. I’m a Certified infant and toddler teacher, and I’m CPR + First Aid trained. I’m currently working towards my associates in early childhood education. I have also nannied for several families and can provide letters of recommendation! I also was nominated for infant + toddler teacher of the year at The Goddard School in 2023. I also have a 10 month old daughter!

$17–25/hr

View Profile

Melissa C.

0 years paid experience
7 miles

$18–28/hr

Hi! I’m Melissa, a middle school teacher offering after-school childcare. I’m responsible, caring, and experienced with children of all ages, including children with special needs. I’m happy to help with homework, activities, dinner, and evening routines!

$18–28/hr

View Profile

Nicole H.

10 years paid experience
7 miles

$20–35/hr

I currently work as a nanny. I have several years experience as a professional nanny, five years experience as a licensed family daycare provider, and I have been babysitting since I was twelve. I am CPR and First Aid certified.