How To Tip at the Holidays

Many people express confusion about proper etiquette when it comes to holiday tipping, especially for those who help us with our children. While offering a special year-end bonus is always optional, it is a common practice and is usually welcomed and appreciated by recipients. There are many people who make our lives easier throughout the year and one way to show them that they are valued is to offer a sincere thank you along with a monetary or other form of gift.

1. Remember to stay within your budget. Tipping is a nice thing to do, but there is no need for you to put yourself in a difficult financial situation, so give only what you can afford. Additionally, many teachers and caregivers are happy to receive cards and gifts that the children have made themselves.
2. Consider your relationship to the recipient. Folks that you rarely see aren't likely to expect a holiday tip, but those who provide regular services will likely appreciate your expression of gratitude.
3. Follow recommended guidelines. There are a number of standards that apply to holiday tips, and they can help you to determine what is considered normal or average when it comes to year-end bonuses. The following are suggestions only - you should feel free to adjust the amounts to fit within your budget. There are also suggested year-end tip amounts for others in our lives, in addition to those who care for and guide our children.
   
   • Part-time Babysitter: One night's pay plus a small gift from your child(ren).
   • Full-time Child Care Provider: One week to one month's pay, plus a small gift from your child(ren).
   • Child Care Service: A group gift, such as a tray of breakfast or lunch treats is nice, as are small gifts to the caregivers that interact regularly with your child(ren).
   • Teacher: A gift valued at $25-100. Gift certificates are always a good idea, especially if you know which shops or restaurants that the teacher prefers.
   • Coaches or Instructors: A small gift from the child, possibly related to the sport or class taught.
4. Additional suggestions for others:
   
   • Housekeeper: One week's pay if the person is a regular, but there is no need to tip if a housekeeping service sends different providers each time.
   • Gardeners: $30-50 dollars, if used regularly. As with housekeeping, there is no need to tip unless the workers are consistently the same.
   • Garbage Collectors: $25-50, with the higher amounts being given if the collectors go out of their way to provide excellent service.
   • Apartment Doorman: $10-75, depending on how often you see the person.
   • Apartment Handymen: $20-50, depending on how often you have needed their assistance.
   • Pet Groomer: ½ the cost of a session.
   • Pet Walker: 1-2 weeks' pay for regular walkers.
   • Hair Stylist: Usual cost of one appointment.
   • Shampoo Person: Twice what you usually tip at each appointment.
   • Personal Trainer: Cost of one session.
   • USPS Mail Carrier: Carriers are not permitted to accept cash gifts, but can accept non-monetary gifts with a value up to $20.