I wasn't sure where to post this one:
One of my clients wants me to teach his 2 kids some easy magic once a week. I have material to teach them but I don't know what would be fair to charge him?

Most around here charge $75 an hour, so 2 would be $150. If props are needed they have to purchase those themselves. It is also fair to provide instruction sheets for the tricks you teach, they are not given those until after you teach each trick. It would be also good if you had a goal in duration and a curriculum to follow. Going in without any preparation will result in confusion and problems with the parents.

I would try to find out what tutor's are charging in your area. In essence, that's what you are doing, plus the cost of any items you give the children.

Always establish a reason when determining your pricing and I think wizardpa has the right idea. You could call a local college and ask the question about tutoring costs. Most college students charge less than a professional tutor but it will certainly give you a framework for thought. You can then tell your potential client what they charge and relate it to what you charge. You have now justified your costs.

If you double your charge for two students versus one you may loose the business. I would certainly give a discount for the second student, such as $75 for one or $125 for two. After all, you will be teaching some aspects of the lesson to both at the same time.

What is it worth to you, and what are they willing to pay? Reach an agreement. Also, consider the enjoyment factor.

I have spent many hours teaching kids for little monetary pay but had a great time. I have taught magic classes at two theaters, a community college, and a magic store. The money was different at each. At the magic store I charges $20 per child, which included a physical magic trick. I split the fee, the store paid for the prop out of his half, and I taught anywhere from 2-6 kids at a time. So I was making as little as $10-$60 for the hour, but I had a great time and got to spend Saturday morning at a magic shop ... and get paid!

My rate card states $70/hour for teaching plus materials. I also sell my magic book to the student(s)--the one that I published and sell as BOR. I teach out of that book. In some situations I have charged as little as $50 per hour (for promotional reasons). I taught two seniors for $100.00. I also taught a month long series at a summer camp which was an hour class three days/week for four weeks. The last week we rehearsed for the final day when the kids put on a show for the parents and staff. I charged $800.00 for that and I think I would rethink that amount for future gigs.

Any teaching I do, I use also as an opportunity to promote my regular show offerings.

I hope this helps a little

Charlie