Hey, so I pay my babysitters more money than I earn sometimes, but I have to say, they are a part of my family, and I consider giving them presents an important part of the holidays. I like my kids to give them a small trinket...perhaps something they've handmade, or a card they've created so the kids get to be a part of it. Then I might give them something that I know they've needed or wanted...My babysitters always live pretty much hand to mouth, though, so I like the gift to be part luxury (a special treat they wouldn't buy themselves) and then something practical: Like CASH!...that they can do whatever they please....

I feel the same way about teacher's gifts. A nice card from the kids and a gift card to a store or an Amex card so they can do what they please...and not have one more darn mug!