:confused: My friend, who has offered more than once in the past, came over to babysit my two young children one night for a few hours (4). Should I have offered her payment?

It's always nice to offer, and they can decline to accept it as they choose.

You know their situation as far as if they could use the money or not, so you know better how much to insist that they take it...

You can still offer it, and say that you were just so tired when you got back that it totally slipped your mind...

If money isn't needed, leave a good meal for her while she sits, or surprise her with a Thank You gift for her continued assistance.

She offered so I would say no because she could be leading up to asking for a favor herself.
Like the others said feed her and give her a little gift and if and when you do need her to babysit offer to pay her and add a little bonus.

Ofering her a payment does close the door to, "I did a favor for you once and now you owe me a favor back." It is up to her to accept or refuse the money.

Very true. Offering a payment is almost necessary... even as a gesture. If the friend takes it, then good. If not, then buy them a gift, or take them out for a meal.

I think it good manners to offer payment for a favor, and if its refused think of something else to show gratitude.