What is the going rate for looking after toddler?

[Fi from West Dulwich]

Our gardener, whom I pay ?12 per hour usually, has bravely agreed to look after my two year old for half a day a week, pottering around the garden together or going to the park - no formal childcare experience or qualifications and very much a private arrangement. I have absolutely no idea what to offer to pay - is ?12 per hour too little, or about right? I don't want to do her down or insult her and she has no idea what is the going rate either so we would be grateful please for some pointers.

Thank you very much in advance for any posts.

[denny]

I would say 8 to 10 an hour is usual but if it's cash in hand you might want to just pay her the same as for the gardening? Anyone else?

[nymom]

I pay 10 per hour for a similar arrangement once a week for half a day. She also does gardening for me at the same price.