So each year I feel conflicted about taking back gifts for the child and those that watch her while we are away. We usually go a minimum of 7 days and up to 9 days in the past (9 days this year). We make plans for our daughter (7 years old this year) to go to several relatives houses while we are gone, so she doesn't stay with 1 person/household the whole time we are gone. It helps keep her distracted and entertained. She feels like it's her "vacation" too. There is no guilt for us leaving for that time, but I always feel like I need to bring something home for her and often times for those who take such good care of her while we are gone. My question is: Do you budget for this and if so do you buy for kids and caretakers or just one? What is a reasonable (in your opinion) amount to spend on caretakers? Thanks for sharing! ~Jill~
I would definitely buy something for your daughter, every time. For those looking after her, I'd get them something - value would be dependent on length they looked after her. For a day or two something small, for longer something mid-range ($15 - $30?). Just remember it's the thought that counts, not the value. After a couple of trips to Cancun I've ran out of ideas what to bring back (my brother looks after my fish, and my in-laws do the airport pick-up) so I'm thinking of just buying something at home that they'd appreciate.
Good thought I have been trying to figure out what to get people who are watching our dog and picking us up.
I think it would be nice to give the caregivers a little treat that they can use after the kids go to bed (like a favorite bottle of wine or fancy coffee) or a gift certificate for something to relax them after babysitting (like a gift card for a dinner out or a bookstore) would be nice. Then, you wouldn't have to stress about it while you're on vacation. One thing our daughters have really liked is that we go to a local grocery store and pick up some unusual local treats (just little things like candy, gum, chips, etc.) It's really inexpensive, and the kids have a lot of fun checking out what kids in other places consider "treats!"
