Interview Questions for new babysitter/nanny

baylorflamingo

As I posted earlier this week, we need a new daytime babysitter. I have a few great candidates lined up from sittercity.com and care.com, but am now wondering what sorts of questions I should ask during the interviews.

Any thoughts or suggestions???

 

THANKS!!! 

kdeames

What experience do you have with kids this age?
References

What's your availability? How much notice do you need?

CPR training

What activities do you like to do with the kids?

What do you charge?

 

I'd say go over any expectations (no visitors/phone calls/any cleaning or cooking expected/any TV rules/allergies/what they can't/don't eat).

 

sharrow

Has any child ever been injured or had an accident under your care?

How do you handle 'x' situation? (such as tantrums)

 

Ruggerkitty

I just interviewed a couple of nannies and I found that if I had a few questions ready to ask, we kind of just got a conversation going and then I could tell if there was chemistry. I asked about their own personal situations, like do they have kids of their own, and if so, what are their plans for if a child is sick and home from school? Do they have to take the day off work or do they have the ability to make other arrangements (like a spouse or family member, mom etc that can help? Also, I asked about activities that they like to do. I really want someone who is willing to wear comfy shoes and be outside a lot. But I also want someone who will get messy and do crafts and art projects too. I talked about my AP style of parenting and explained where this was difficult for some nannies who may find it easier to give formula whenever they want rather than working around my nursing schedule, and how I need someone patient who is willing to work with me even if we don't do any CIO or sleep training, etc. 

My advice is to really think about what is important to you in a person, it's SO much more than CPR and experience. You need a personality type that fits with your family and parenting style. Good luck, I hope you find a great person!