Holiday Tips:  Tipping often drops during recessions when it is needed and appreciated the most.  The old Ebeneazer Scrooge in the Charles Dickens tale 'A Christmas Carol'  might suggest avoiding the barber shop or skip getting your pet groomed near the holidays to avoid the tip but generous people will make a special effort to tip those who need it the most. 

Au pair or live-in nanny: One week's pay and a gift from the children
Regular baby sitter: One evening's pay and a gift from the kids
Day-care provider: A gift, or $25 to $70 per staffer, plus a small gift from the children
Personal caregiver: Between one week and one month's salary, or a gift
Nursing-home employees: A gift that can be shared by the staff
Home health employees: A thoughtful gift (if gift-giving is not against agency policy)
Housekeeper or cleaning help: Up to the amount of one week's pay, plus a small gift
Barber or hairstylist: Cost of one salon visit
Trash and recycling collectors: $10 to $30 per person
Gardeners: $20 to $50 each
Pet groomer: Up to the cost of one session or a gift
Dog walker: Up to one week's pay or a gift
Newspaper delivery person: $10 to $30 or a small gift
Doorman: $15 to $80 ($15 or more each for multiple doormen, or a gift)
Mail carrier: The U.S. Postal Service forbids cash tips; small gifts are acceptable
Teachers: A small gift or note, plus a note from the child