Dear Shayna B.,

I thought I was doing a nice thing by watching my neighbor’s toddler for an hour when she had to go out. She said she would pay me. I was happy to earn some money and happy to help someone out. She never did pay me. I politely mentioned this to her and she again said she’d pay me. A week has passed and I still haven’t gotten paid. Is there anything I can do about this?

Dear Frustrated Freida,

I know how upsetting it can be to spend your time babysitting a 2-year-old. Especially when you’re expecting to get paid for it and not getting paid for it. It is really annoying and unfair to you because she told you that she’d pay you and she did not keep her word. The next day when you mentioned it politely she again said she would pay. And now a week has passed and you’re still not getting paid. Maybe she thinks you’re not being serious. Maybe she thinks you’re joking. Maybe she wants a sitter who will charge less. Maybe she wants something you aren’t giving her. Regardless of what she wants you did a job for her and she still owes you your money! Try sending a respectful message that tells her everything that you want from her. Give her a deadline and tell her how much money she owes you. Be clear in the message. If after all your attempts she still doesn’t give you the money, call your lawyer!

Shayna is a fourth grader and understands what kids in elementary school are going through. She is happy to help others navigate this tricky time. She can be reached at [email protected]. She is looking forward to hearing from you soon.