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How to approach this situation?

I've been babysitting for the same family regularly for over 6 years now. They only have one boy, he just turned 10. Since the second week of June I've been watching him for about 5 hours per day, 3-4 days per week. Normally I'm paid about $6 per hour, sometimes more but usually less. This past Friday I was given $80 for 17.5 hours, which worked out to be $4.57 per hour. I didn't count it until I got home, otherwise I think I would have asked her (his mom) about it. At this point, I'm angry because I feel like I'm being taken advantage of and hurt that they only think I'm worth $4.57 per hour. I'd like to think I'm very good to them--I drive there myself and take myself home, I bring my own food and drinks, I deal with their 5 crazy dogs (2 of which have bitten me), and I've been VERY flexible and accommodating in regards to which days and hours they need me. I'm 21 years old and I'm also a nursing student so I've have lots of training in dealing with different medical emergencies. I'm BLS certified, which includes certification in child CPR and first aid. Point is, I know I deserve more than $4.57 per hour. I've put up with a lot of things I shouldn't have to, so this was the last straw. Now I need to decide what I want to say and how to say it... I've gotten better with standing up for myself, but for some reason I'm just not comfortable doing so with this family. I'm just looking for input and advice about what others would do in this situation. Thank you for reading :)
I should also add that money is NOT an issue for them. They both have very good jobs.

Public Comments

1. I would go in assuming that it's a simple mathematical error. Goodness knows I make them all the time. :)

All the best.

2. You should tell the parents how u feel :O

3. I would email the mother and say, "Mrs._____, I am now charging 10 dollars per hour now, because I believe that I am becoming a stronger babysitter and I can use the money for (anything important). Thank you for your time and I look forward to seeing you and your son." See? it wont be that hard!

4. Be upfront with them. I used to babysit, too, so I know you can get close to a family, but you AREN'T their family. You aren't a daughter they're giving an allowance to. It'll just be like asking for a raise. Inform them of all the good things you've done, how long you've been with the family, and how the cost of living has gone up over the years.

Say,"I really enjoy babysitting (kid's name), but I believe that I have earned a higher hourly wage." Hear what they have to say. Let them set an offer first then raise it steadily according to how much you need. If they don't offer you more money than needed (my teenage friends earn $10 an hour babysitting), walk. It isn't worth being like a part-time Mom and not being paid respectively.

5. k i agree with you n i would completely say somethingg cos thats not right.. heres how i would say it:

Hey, Mr. and Mrs. whatever, can I speak with you? ( this will be like, when they get home right before you leave to go home) and both or one of them will say sure, what would you like to talk about. then u start explaining how counting all of your money from last friday, you were only being paid 4.57 n hour. then start sayin how much you take care of their child and pets and do so much for them. then say things like, i know its your decision, but i dont really agree that i am worth 4.57 an hour. then let them think or whatever then say, ill let you discuss it with the mrs. or the mr. (idk) but please consider what i am talking about.

now beacause you have babysitted for that many years and all, they will have to say something like how sorry they are, or whatever, but just be cool with itt.. gotta go with the flow