Choosing a quality in-home childcare provider is never an easy task. When parents finally decide on offering a nanny a position, it’s usually due to a combination of agreeable personalities, the nanny’s experience and interest in the position, and the information shared during the interview process.
While choosing the right nanny can be a difficult decision, eliminating the wrong nanny can be a fairly easy one if you ask the right questions during the initial interview.
In addition to asking about the basics including salary requirements, availability and work experience, asking open ended questions can help you learn more about the person who wants to take care of your children.
When conducting an initial interview with a potential nanny, be sure to ask these 10 questions to learn more about the person who wants to provide care for your children.
- Why do you want this position?
- What attracts you to caring for children in their home versus in a daycare setting?
- What would you do if my child hit another child?
- How would you handle an emergency situation?
- What do you like to do in your free time?
- How do you usually handle it when an issue arises on the job?
- What would a typical day look like if you were caring for my child?
- Can you tell me about your childrearing philosophy?
- What is one of your most difficult experiences in child care? How did you handle it?
- What was your childhood like? What is your current relationship with your family members?
When interviewing a potential nanny, listen carefully to her answers. When she speaks, listen for thoughtful and complete answers that set right with you, and don’t be afraid to ask follow up questions if you are looking for additional information. Also remember, what she says, and what she doesn’t say, are both of value.
Leaving your children in the care of another person is always difficult. Knowing as much as you can about your caregiver can help ease the worries and reassure you that you’ve made the right care giving choice.
