Swapping kids? Okay, what I really mean is, you can save a ton of money and put the savings in your cosmetic surgery cookie jar by forming a Babysitting Co-op.  First of all we need to understand what one is before we can form one! 

A babysitting co-op is basically a group of parents who get together and agree to take turns watching each other's children.  The main reason people do this is to save money!  So, instead of a paid service, your working with a trade, you get free babysitting service by providing free babysitting service for others.  This can be easier than you think since watching other people's children is a lot easier when you are already at home watching your own.  As your children get older, you can look at it as trading playdates.  The children will be busy playing with each other which gives you more time to yourself.  Another benefit of this service is you can be assured that your child will be looked after by the best kind of s

itter...another parent that you know and trust. 

How do you set up a babysitting co-op? 
You'll have to take the initiative by talking to other parents.  Consider posting fliers at a local gathering spot such as the gym, the corner cafe, local baby stores or place an ad in a daycare newsletter.  Once you have enough parents willing to participate, you'll have to set up some guidelines.  How will you handle scheduling?  You might want to set up a group email list with a weekly schedule so everyone knows what's happening.  What happens if a member drops out of the group? Should they be asked to make up any time "owed" before they leave?

After you iron out all of the details, distribute a master list that includes each member's contact information -- phone numbers, email addresses, mailing addresses as well as emergency contacts.

Forming a Babysitting Co-op can be a life saver if you're trying to save money for that cosmetic surgery procedure, and you'll soon have it if you're persistent and prudent!