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 Calais, ME

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

1 active child care providers near you

Average rate is $27.50/hr

140,000 5-star parent reviews

Trusted by

Find your child care in Calais, ME

Robin G.

27 years paid experience
< 1 mile

$20–35/hr

Hi! I’m Robin — the barefoot-in-the-forest, tea-sipping, child-whispering nanny you didn’t know you were looking for. I’ve been working with children for over 27 years, and I genuinely love what I do. Kids are my people. They’re honest, hilarious, wildly creative, and they remind me every day that the world is meant to be explored, not rushed through. Watching little ones learn, grow, and discover who they are is my favorite kind of magic. Why I love being a sitter/nanny: I’m all about child-led learning, nature play, and helping kids build confidence in who they are. Whether we’re wandering through the trees, building forts, drawing in the dirt with sticks, or turning a trip to the store into a learning adventure, I believe childhood should be full of joy, curiosity, and a whole lot of fresh air. I love being the adult who listens, encourages, and helps little humans feel safe and capable. My experience: 27+ years in early childhood education Certified Group Leader & Infant Supervisor in Colorado Ran my own nature-based nanny collective and toddler program (“Forest Saplings”) Worked with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, school-agers, and teens Extensive experience with mixed-age groups, outdoor learning, and supporting children through big feelings and transitions I’ve nannied for countless families, many of whom became lifelong friends Skills & strengths: Nature-based, child-led curriculum Gentle guidance, emotional coaching, and clear, calm communication Creative problem solving (because let’s be honest kids are tiny plot-twists) Early learning support, sensory play, and hands-on activities Safe, confident driver — I come from Colorado where mountain driving in snow is practically a sport CPR/First Aid certified Reliable, communicative, and genuinely invested in each child’s growth If you’re looking for someone who brings patience, humor, experience, and a whole lot of heart someone who will cherish your children and help them thrive I’d love to connect.