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Yeah, I agree with @MrsTiz: on this. Plus I feel like you might give a nanny more responsibilities, like taking your kid to play dates and classes and having them do your child's laundry and dishes, etc. I wouldn't expect (or want) a babysitter to do those things.

Similar to what @MrsTiz: said, but I don't think a nanny necessarily needs to be full-time. For me, a nanny is a regularly scheduled, long-term childcare provider (even if it's only 3 days a week or something like that) while a babysitter is an ad-hoc arrangement. Also, I would expect a nanny to be more educated in early child development and to plan appropriate, enrichment-based activities for my LO. I wouldn't necessarily expect that from a babysitter.

in addition to the above, it's about a commitment on both your parts, you are promising employment and nanny is promising to work for you- so you expect her to keep that schedule even if something more lucrative came up for a wk and in turn you pay nanny even if you decide to not use her for the time because she is reserving that time for you. there are also perks/benefits involved as a nanny that aren't usually there for babysitters, paid time off, maybe a contribution to health care costs, sometimes other benefits like a gym membership or cell phone.

@locavore_mama: hahahaha, actually it was kind of sad when i realized i'm going back to school and that entry level jobs in the profession i'm looking at take home less than i do when i work full time. people used to tell me to go back and finish my teaching degree all the time, i would respond, 'why? so i can take a pay cut and work more hours? no, thanks!'

I think for me the difference in a nanny versus a babysitter is the consistency of work. A nanny you are agreeing to a set hours and they can count on that income. Versus a babysitter, they are just kinda as needed or on call and often at a premium time (Friday night/weekend).

I could I guess see how the rates could vary depending on situation:

Babysitter:
- Younger - less money
- Premium Night/weekend hours - more money
- Less experience and responsibilities (watch a movie and put kid to bed) - less money

Nanny:
- Age, experience and certifications - more money
- More activities with child and household responsibilities - more money if applicable
- Reliable income because of set hours and/or benefits - less money (in terms of hourly rate).