Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead

As summer approaches, Sue Ellen 'Swell' Crandell hopes for a fun-filled season with her siblings. However, her plans take a turn when her mother leaves for Australia, leaving them under the supervision of a strict caretaker.

While dealing with their mother's absence, the siblings are shocked when Mrs. Sturak dies unexpectedly. This tragic event pushes them into a panic as they fear their mother will return and ruin their newfound freedom.

In their desperation, Swell and her siblings hatch a plan to dispose of Mrs. Sturak's body at the local mortuary. They fabricate a story in a note to cover their tracks, trying to protect their summer from impending doom.

As they prepare to execute their plan, the siblings discover Mrs. Sturak's purse filled with their mother's spending money. This unexpected financial windfall ignites hopes for a summer filled with possibilities.

To help with their financial struggles, Swell decides to take on a part-time job at Clown Dog. She quickly gains attention from her coworker Bryan, sparking a potential romance amidst the chaos.

Frustrated by her manager, Swell concocts a daring scheme using a fake résumé to apply for a job at General Apparel West. Her bold move is surprisingly successful, landing her a position as an executive assistant.

Swell's rapid rise at GAW causes jealousy in Carolyn, who had her sights set on the executive assistant role. This rivalry between the two intensifies as Carolyn seeks to sabotage Swell's success.

As Swell juggles her new responsibilities, she resorts to borrowing petty cash, hoping to replace it later. Meanwhile, her budding romance with Bryan is put to the test when she learns he's Carolyn's brother.

Swell is dismayed to discover that her siblings have taken money from her purse for their own indulgences. Their lavish spending further complicates her already overwhelming situation.

In a bid to save GAW, Swell proposes creating a new clothing line inspired by a fashion show idea from Rose. She convinces her siblings to help convert their home into a banquet hall for the event.

The night of the fashion show unfolds with dramatic confrontations, leading to Rose breaking up with Gus over his disloyalty. This pivotal moment sets the stage for the following events.

During the fashion show, Carolyn attempts to discredit Swell by revealing her youth. However, Rose defends Swell, recognizing her creativity and the success of the event despite Carolyn's jealousy.

After an emotional night, Swell and Bryan share a poignant moment of reconciliation. However, the looming threat of their mother's return adds tension to their newfound connection.

As the film nears its end, Mrs. Sturak's gravestone humorously encapsulates her character with the inscription: 'Nice Old Lady Inside, Died of Natural Causes.' The story leaves the audience contemplating the twists of fate in life.