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 Lester Prairie, MN

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

7 active child care providers near you

Average rate is $19.50/hr

140,000 5-star parent reviews

Trusted by

Find your child care in Lester Prairie, MN

Teresa S.

10 years paid experience
11 miles

$15–20/hr

Hello, I am looking for a on call - as needed baby sitter / nanny position. I have over 10 years experience caring for both special needs and typical children . I have open availability. I look forward to connecting!

$15–20/hr

View Profile

Pearl H.

0 years paid experience
14 miles

$15–25/hr

Hi, my name is Pearl and I plan on being a future educator working with elementary children. Last year, I got to participate in an internship at my elementary school.

$15–25/hr

View Profile

Theresa K.

26 years paid experience
11 miles

$18–25/hr

Hello! My name is Theresa Kelly. My husband I have raised three amazing daughters and now have an adorable two year old granddaughter. Growing up in Minnetonka, my favorite thing to do was to babysit. I loved it and had many jobs and was paid well. I went on babysitting trips with families, and in high school stayed with kiddos when parents went out of town. After high school I attended the university of Minnesota- Duluth and received a teaching degree in Elementary education. About that same time, our first daughter was born. While I was raising my girls for about 12 years I was a lead substitute teacher for the Watertown school district we lived in. I taught preschool through eighth grade and enjoyed the variety and flexibly. I have done several long term positions since then and taught preschool for 7 years. About four years ago I decided to go back to substitute teaching. I work in three different districts and have had full time work because the need is so high and I am often requested. I have loved it and am good at it, I think because I love all age levels, I am very adaptable, and have a great re pore with kids. Due to Covid, I at least for this year will not be substitute teaching. There is too much uncertainty and I work in 11 different buildings so I've decided too make a change. With everything going on in the world right now, heart goes out to families with young children. I know they have so many difficult decisions to make and a lot on their plates. I have no worries on finding other work, but as I have shared, I love working with children so becoming a nanny seems it would be a perfect fit, if I can find a family that is right for me. I'd love an opportunity to meet you and learn about your needs as a family to see if I'm the right nanny for you!

$18–25/hr

View Profile

Samantha W.

6 years paid experience
14 miles

$18–22/hr

Hi! My name is Sam, and I have over six years of experience caring for children ranging from 2 months to 12 years old. I’m CPR and First Aid certified, and I love creating a fun, engaging, and screen-free environment for kids. I enjoy doing arts and crafts, cooking, and baking with children, helping them explore their creativity while learning new skills. As a college student, I have pretty open availability, except for the middle of the day, and I’m comfortable around pets. Families often tell me that I’m reliable, energetic, and great with kids, and I’m proud to have amazing recommendations. My goal is always to provide a safe, happy, and nurturing space where children can thrive and have fun!

$18–22/hr

View Profile

Payten W.

8 years paid experience
13 miles

$20–30/hr

I am a recent college graduate currently in the process of applying for graduate schools to get a Masters in Special Education. I have been working with children for most of my life, as much of my family is involved in education in some capacity. I spend my summers working in a summer school program to help prepare 4-6 years olds for their upcoming year of kindergarten. During the school years since graduating in 2024 I have worked as a paraeducator in a middle school setting, and I currently work at an Elementary school in Waconia as an ESP with 3rd through 5th grade. I am not currently licensed in CPR or first aid, but I am willing to get those renewed if necessary. I would love to help out after school or on the occasional weekend. I am available to run errands, drop off and pick up from sports practices, or do anything that needed. I truly love working with children and I would love to help out in any way I can.

$20–30/hr

View Profile

Kaelyn T.

3 years paid experience
15 miles

$15–21/hr

I am a current college student taking online classes and love working with kids! I am CPR and First Aid certified and I have worked as a babysitter casually in the past. I have been working as a preschool gymnastics and sports instructor for 2 years as well as a summer childcare teacher this past summer. I love being creative, doing arts and crafts, music, and baking!

$15–21/hr

View Profile

Emerson L.

4 years paid experience
13 miles

$18–25/hr

Hello, I am Emerson and I am a 19 year old looking to nanny. I have babysat for years now and got a job at a daycare centeralnost 3 years ago. I love showing the kids new things. I have my Infant/Toddler Child Development Associate (CDA), and I'd love to help your children grow!