I am a single, unemployed, 54 year old Grandma of 7 grandkids ranging from 3 months old to 10 years old. I go to college full time and the only money I have is what I get from financial aid and student loans.

My problem is that between my 3 grown kids I usually end up watching anywhere from one to four of their children almost 7 days a week. I am uncomfortable charging money to watch my grandkids but I feel that I am being taken advantage of. I think if I set rates (more for babies less for older kids) they might not leave them with me so long and I might actually have time for myself or to do my school work. What do you think?

To be honest, that is what grandparents are for... but not every single day..

You just need to let your children know that you are also a student, and also have a life of your own to live. Tell them that you can only babysit on the days that you do not have a class.

ALSO, I commend you for being a grandma and a full-time student. What is it that you are studying?

I have to disagree with Mrs. Davorin. That is not what grandparents are for. I never ask gramma to babysit my grandchildren, Gramma has raised her children and it is my turn to raise mine. If I want someone to watch them I hire a babysitter. If Gramma wants to spend some time with them great, but I don't expect babysitting services from her.

Now, I commend you for going back to school at your age. I am 43 and in nursing school myself. I know how tough studies can be and days that you do not have a class should be devoted to studies.

I agree that you are being taken advantage of. Have you ever just said "I'm sorry, I can't watch the kids today"? If not, you need to start standing up for yourself and tell them that babysitting is cutting in to your study time and that, while you love your children and grandchildren, it is a financial burden on you and that they will either have to find alternative methods of daycare or you will have to start charging the going rates for your location. Food, gas, etc is not cheap and financial aid and student loans only go so far.

I DO agree with J_9. I would not mind babysitting my grandchildren, once I have children and then they have children...

The rest is completely accurate... And thank you for not clicking the disagree button. I believe its much more civil to state you disagree and why, and hear the rebuttal or agreement...

If you are taking care of your grand children to help them out financially you too should get paid.
I am taking care of my mother 7 days a week and she has Alzheimer's for over 9 years. My brother and sister do not have the time to pitch in and give a break. Where as my other sister takes over during the evening and she works full time. So this is very stressful between the two of us where as the other sibs are off the hook to just visit 2 times a year. My sister who helps out does pay me something but not a large amount to Grammy sit and care for her 7days a week.I would say the time I put is comes to $3.00 per hours. She is in diapers and needs help walking and going to her doctors visits.
So my answer to you would be to talk to your children and have them check out rates for a stranger to watch their children and then they maybe willing to pay a family member rather than a total stranger.
I hope this is helpful to you and Good Luck