hi April.
My ideas may not be helpful but i just had a thought. Is your 7 year old responsible? My son is very responsible and he has been latchkey since he was 7- Home alone after school. That is one thought, the second thought.... Have you ever applied at home depot? The starting pay there is higher than what you make and that way you could pay what she decides is fair. Not much help but
I just thought I would offer. good luck hun,