Parents, you may also want to read the article titled “Interviewing Tips”. This will help you get ready for the in-person interview.

General Sample Interview Questions:

1. Why do you want to be a nanny vs. working at a preschool or day care?
2. What was your last childcare experience like, and why did it end?
3. What was your worst experience with a child and how did you solve it?
4. How did your parents discipline you? Do you agree or disagree with their beliefs? What would you do differently?
5. What do you like most about working with children?
6. Have you ever handled an emergency? If so, what was it and how did you handle the situation?
7. What is your current relationship like with your family?
8. What are your hobbies and interests?
9. Do you like watching TV and what is your favorite TV program?
10. How do you feel about light housekeeping? What are you comfortable with doing around the house?
11. How do most people feel about you? Would they say that you are a good friend?

Newborns through age 2, consider asking these questions:

1. What do you do when a baby doesn’t stop crying?
2. What is your primary responsibility for a child this age?
3. What play activities would you do to entertain a child of this age?
4. What is the discipline method you would use for a child this age?

Ages 2 through 3

1. How would you handle a temper tantrum? Would it matter if you were in your home or in public?
2. How should toilet training be approached?
3. What are the benefits of playtime with other children the same age?
4. What types of educational activities would you do with a child of this age?
5. What types of indoor activities can you think of to keep a child of this age entertained?

Ages 3 through 5

1. What method of discipline would you use on a child this age?
2. What television shows would you allow a child of this age to watch?
3. Are you willing to actively participate in a child’s group activities?
4. Are you willing to participate in playgroups and/or playdates?

Ages 5 and Up

1. Would you feel comfortable staying inside, while a child of this age played outside?
2. Are you able to tutor a child if needed? If so, what subjects?
3. Are you o.k. with watching our friend’s children, in addition to ours, if we all want to go out?
4. How would you handle an abusive child?
5. How would you handle a child who does not want to do homework?
Additional Questions:

1. Can you tell me about your childhood?
2. How did your parents discipline you?
3. Why do you want to be a nanny?
4. What values are important to you?
5. How long would you like to be a nanny for?

A good idea~ Ask each nanny the same two questions and see how each one responds.

Click Here for a print out of NannyCare.com’s Interview Questions.