She had been working for the Hartmans for three months. It was the perfect gig: two well-behaved kids, a fully stocked fridge, and parents who worked late, leaving the house wide open.
Experts warn that harsh punishment for a trusted caregiver can backfire psychologically if not explained carefully. Child psychologist Dr. Elena Vance advises: "Tell the child: 'The babysitter made a bad choice. She took something that didn't belong to her. When people do that, they have to go to a place where they learn to make good choices again. It is not your fault.'" She had been working for the Hartmans for three months
Six months to the day, Mr. Hartman handed her a final check for zero dollars. It was a receipt. a fully stocked fridge