Trusting someone to care for your child can feel overwhelming. Here are questions to ask a nanny, so that you know your little one is in good hands.
Whether you’re headed back to work or just need a helping hand, many moms of Long Island choose to hire a nanny for child care.
But the thought of leaving your little one with someone you barely know can feel scary. How can you be sure they’re capable? What would they do in an emergency? Will your child even like them? These are all normal questions to have as you begin your search.
You will undoubtedly interview any potential nanny candidates before they begin the job. The more thorough your interview, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time to leave them in charge. The following questions to ask a nanny are a great place to start.
Professional qualifications and certifications
Just like any job, the right candidate will have the appropriate background, education, and experience to be a nanny.
1. How long have you been a nanny?
2. What is your background in child care? Have you always worked with individual families, or have you worked in daycares/schools?
3. What is the highest level of education you’ve received? If you have undergraduate or graduate degrees, what was your field of study?
4. Are you certified in infant and child CPR?
5. Are you certified in basic first aid and life saving skills, like abdominal thrusts?
Scheduling and salary
Depending on your needs, you may want a full-time nanny or just someone for a few days a week.
1. What is your availability? Do you only work certain hours or days during the week?
2. How far in advance do you need scheduled days solidified?
3. What is your cancellation policy?
4. Do you have a minimum time frame? (i.e., must be booked for at least 6 hours, 3 days a week)
5. What is your expected hourly rate or salary?
Getting to know your candidate
Of course, a good nanny goes beyond education and qualifications — they should enjoy what they do!
1. What inspired you to pursue child care?
2. What’s your favorite part of the job?
3. What’s your most memorable experience working as a nanny?
4. How can a client family best support you?
5. Is there a time that you went “above and beyond” for one of your families or children?
Day-to-day
What would a typical day look like for your nanny? It’s important to outline expectations right from the start.
1. Do you provide any cooking, cleaning, or laundry services?
2. Do you provide transportation to and from activities?
3. How do you handle the first few weeks with a new client?
4. How would a “good day at work” look like for you?
5. How do you handle last-minute changes?
Your nanny’s relationship with your child
Your nanny will be spending a lot of time with your child, so it’s important to be on the same page about their care.
1. How do you handle disciplinary issues?
2. How do you handle conflicts between siblings or friends?
3. What are your favorite activities to do with the kids?
4. Are you able to help with homework and/or developmental skills (reading, writing, speaking, walking, etc.)?
5. How do you think your former clients’ children would describe you?
Don’t be afraid to add your own questions into the mix, especially if you have a special needs child or specific concerns to address.