Deciding on an exchange system is one of the first steps to starting a babysitters cooperative. The coop's rules should state which type of currency is used to pay for babysitters and how it works.
The most common exchange systems in a coop are:
Tickets for Babysitters
Raffle tickets or coupons work well in a coop that doesn't have a coordinator. A parent gives the babysitter one or more tickets to cover the babysitting time. The parent who babysits can then use her newly earned ticket when she needs a babysitter.Every member should receive 10 tickets when they join the babysitters cooperative. Each ticket is worth one hour of babysitting. Tickets can also be ripped in half for 30 minute intervals. This gives members 10 hours of total babysitting time just for joining.
Tokens for Babysitters
Parents can swap tokens such as poker chips for babysitting services. Since poker chips can't be broken in half when a member only needs half an hour, select one color poker chip to equal 30 minutes of babysitting time. Give members 20 poker chips for a total of 10 hours.Play Money for Babysitters
Many co-ops print or buy play money. Monopoly money is also a popular choice.A large denomination signifies an hour of babysitting and $1 equals 30 minutes. You can opt to design your own play money so new members won't be confused about the different denominations -- $1 can easily make an on-the-go parent think she has an hour of babysitting coming to her.
Since play money will wear out quickly, consider laminating the paper. This will save your babysitters coop a lot of real money in the long run.
Points for Babysitters
Using a points system is perfect for babysitting co-ops with a coordinator. To track points without a coordinator, use a service such as BabysitterExchange.com.Instead of physically swapping tickets or play money, points are reported and tracked. Monthly reports should be mandatory so all members can see how many points they've earned or spent.
Points should equal 15 or 30 minutes each, depending on the choice you make when you start your group. New members should receive 40 points if each point represents 15 minutes, 20 points if you choose 30 minutes.
Additional Payment Rules for Using Babysitters
After you decide on your exchange system, you will need to credit your members. Each family should receive the same amount of babysitting time, unless a member is earning additional time for coordinating the group.Some coops opt to charge extra babysitting time when:
- You're late picking up your child
- The babysitter is watching your child on a holiday
- You need a babysitter at night
- The babysitter has to prepare a meal for your child
- A babysitter is needed in your home
