Reason #168 to hire 13-year-old babysitters

When she comes down with 101 degree fever the morning she’s supposed to babysit, as she lies shivering on her sickbed, she will text her 13-year-old best friend. Her 13-year-old best friend has no plans, because she’s 13, so she will happily say yes. Oktoberfest plans for tonight are still on!

Some other reasons to hire 13-year-old sitters?
Reason #137: She will call you Mrs. [Last Name], even if you live in the urban northeast where teenagers typically call adults by their first names at best.
Reason #89: Because she’s only 10 years older than your kids, your introverted and mom-attached 3 year old son will develop a crush on her, making mom and dad’s departure very easy.
Reason #174: Her own mother is still protective, since she’s only 13, which means mom will drop her off, come in to say hello, and be home nearby and on-call throughout the night. Effectively, I have an energetic 13 year old PLUS her mother who has already raised 3 good children.
Reason #2: Because babysitting is one of a few jobs she’s old enough for, she’s more than delighted to have a job and will approach it seriously, with zeal, freshness, and respect. She plays with our children better than any sitter we’ve had.
Reason #1: She costs at least 30% less than late-teenagers… it’s like buy 2 hours get 1 free.

God bless you, Sarah, and all the other dear young sitters out there. Thank you for your sweetness, and for helping us keep the fun and flame in our marriage.

Now go call your 13-year-old sitter today!