All fifty U.S. states have their own labor laws, including those that govern babysitting. In Connecticut, labor laws can be found in Chapters 556 to 573 of Title 31 of the Connecticut Code.
Although federal laws also apply to babysitting, when there is a difference between federal and state law, the law that offers the most protection is applied.
Information concerning Connecticut labor laws as applied to babysitting are addressed below.
Exempt Status
According to Connecticut labor laws, general rules regarding holidays, overtime pay and minimum wage do not apply to casual, domestic jobs such as babysitting, summer camp counselors and personal companions. They are exempt from such requirements.
Minimum Age
Connect Kids, the official Connecticut state website for children, tells us there is no minimum age at which a child is old enough to babysit. Connect Kids gives guidelines stating that experts recommend a child be at least 12 years old to be left home alone and at least age 15 before being responsible for another child. Parents should consider the maturity of the child as well as the feelings of the child to judge when the child is old enough to babysit.
Minimum Wage
Minimum wage is the minimum amount of pay per-hour that an employee must receive. Babysitting is exempt from minimum wage laws and the rate of pay should be agreed upon between the parties involved.
Number of hours worked
Connecticut law does not address how many hours a babysitter can work. If the babysitter is a minor, it is a judgment call by the parents. Further information regarding youth and labor laws can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website under youth rules.