BABY SITTING BLUES

Everybody’s Uncle,

My boyfriend and I live together. This summer I will be staying at home during the day to take care of my son and my boyfriend's two children. In order to make some extra money I want to try to find two or three other children in our neighborhood to babysit. I can't find what PA's law is on how many children you are allowed to watch without a license. I hope you can help.
 
Melissa

Melissa,

Prior to taking any action related to child care, contact your local child protection services to be sure you are within all laws and guidelines.

My research indicated that child care is limited to 3 unrelated children in a situation such as you outline.

I suggest you seek some other source of income. Three children (yours or anyone else’s) are a handful. The fact that you live with your boyfriend does not make his children “related,” therefore, under that interpretation you would be limited to one additional child. Cohabitation, though common these days, is not the same as marriage. This living arrangement, in the eyes of some, could be viewed as anywhere from less than ideal to unfit. You have three children, none of which have two biological parents living with them. That might raise questions about judgment. Child care places you in a position of responsibility. People sue for just about anything. You assume responsibility for the well being of a child in your care. Any injury can find you in small claims court. A serious injury could bring total havoc to your life.

Don’t do it,
Everybody’s Uncle