Hiring a nanny isn’t just about checking references or verifying experience—it’s about trusting someone with your child’s well-being. And for nannies, interviewing for a role means more than just listing past jobs; it’s about showing empathy, flexibility, and child development knowledge.
Whether you’re a parent hiring a nanny or a nanny preparing for interviews, this guide will help you navigate the process with confidence.
We’ve compiled 35+ essential nanny interview questions and answers, plus interview tips, benefits, and FAQs to help you make the right match.
👩👧 Why Nanny Interviews Matter
A nanny often becomes part of your family. The right fit supports your child’s growth, comfort, and routine. That’s why thorough interviews are crucial.
For parents, interviews help you:
- Understand a candidate’s personality
- Learn about their childcare style
- Assess problem-solving and flexibility
For nannies, interviews help you:
- Share your strengths and experience
- Get clarity on job expectations
- Build trust with the family
✅ Core Qualities to Look for in a Nanny
Before diving into questions, here’s what both parties should look for:
- Patience and empathy
- Strong communication skills
- Child safety awareness
- Flexibility with routines and emergencies
- Creative engagement
- Understanding of child development
📋 Nanny Interview Questions and Sample Answers
Let’s explore the most common nanny interview questions by category.
👶 General Background Questions
1. Tell me about your nanny or childcare experience.
Sample Answer:
“I’ve been a nanny for 6 years, caring for children aged 6 months to 10 years. My roles included preparing meals, helping with homework, and planning activities. I also have CPR certification and a background in early childhood education.”
2. Why did you choose to become a nanny?
Sample Answer:
“I’ve always loved working with children and helping them grow. Being a nanny allows me to form strong bonds and play a direct role in their development.”
3. What do you enjoy most about childcare?
Sample Answer:
“I enjoy watching children reach new milestones and being part of their learning journey. It’s incredibly rewarding.”
🧠 Childcare Philosophy and Approach
4. How do you handle tantrums or difficult behavior?
Sample Answer:
“I use positive reinforcement and redirection. I stay calm and try to understand the child’s needs before reacting. Communication is key.”
5. How do you handle screen time?
Sample Answer:
“I follow the family’s preferences. Personally, I prefer balancing screen time with outdoor play, crafts, and reading.”
6. What’s your approach to discipline?
Sample Answer:
“I believe in setting clear boundaries, explaining consequences, and using time-outs or removal from the situation when needed.”
🍎 Daily Routines and Responsibilities
7. How do you plan a typical day with a toddler?
Sample Answer:
“I include structured play, snack and nap time, outdoor activities, and reading. I follow the family’s routine and add enriching experiences.”
8. Are you comfortable with light housekeeping or meal prep?
Sample Answer:
“Yes, I can prepare healthy meals for children and tidy up after playtime or meals.”
9. How do you handle nap schedules and bedtime routines?
Sample Answer:
“I keep a calm environment, follow the child’s routine, and include stories or soothing music if needed.”
⛑️ Emergency and Safety Questions
10. What would you do if the child started choking?
Sample Answer:
“I’m certified in infant and child CPR. I would perform the Heimlich maneuver while staying calm and call 911 if needed.”
11. How would you respond to a fever or injury?
Sample Answer:
“I’d inform the parents immediately, check the child’s temperature, provide comfort, and follow the family’s medical preferences.”
12. Are you comfortable administering medication if needed?
Sample Answer:
“Yes, as long as I receive clear written instructions from the parents or a doctor.”
🏡 Household & Parent Communication
13. How do you update parents about the day?
Sample Answer:
“I use daily logs or a childcare app to note meals, naps, activities, and moods. I also text or chat at pick-up time.”
14. How do you handle disagreements with parents?
Sample Answer:
“I believe in open and respectful communication. I’d bring up concerns calmly and work together on a solution.”
15. Are you comfortable with nanny cams?
Sample Answer:
“Absolutely. I understand many families use them for peace of mind.”
🚘 Transportation and Activities
16. Do you have a valid driver’s license and clean record?
Sample Answer:
“Yes. I also have a safe, insured vehicle and can provide documentation.”
17. Are you comfortable taking kids to school, parks, or appointments?
Sample Answer:
“Yes, I’ve done school pickups and planned fun, safe outings.”
👨👩👧 Family Fit & Availability
18. Are you open to working evenings or weekends occasionally?
Sample Answer:
“I’m flexible and happy to help with occasional evening or weekend shifts with prior notice.”
19. What’s your ideal work environment or family dynamic?
Sample Answer:
“I enjoy warm, respectful households that value communication and teamwork.”
20. How soon can you start?
Sample Answer:
“I’m available to start within one to two weeks, depending on the family’s needs.”
🎯 Questions Parents Should Ask During a Nanny Interview
- What do you love most about working with kids?
- How do you stay calm in stressful situations?
- What activities do you like to do with children indoors and outdoors?
- Do you have experience with children of my child’s age?
- Are you comfortable helping with schoolwork or homework?
👪 Benefits of Conducting a Thoughtful Nanny Interview
A thorough nanny interview process ensures a safe, happy environment for your child. Here’s why it’s worth the effort:
- Ensures safety and trust
- Clarifies expectations upfront
- Helps identify the best personality fit
- Allows discussions on parenting style
- Reduces turnover with better matches
- Protects your child’s well-being and routine
- Builds a stronger caregiver-family relationship
- Improves communication and reduces future conflicts
🧭 Interview Tips for Parents and Nannies
For Parents:
- Be specific about your expectations
- Share your parenting style and routines
- Ask behavioral and situational questions
For Nannies:
- Bring a resume, certifications, and references
- Share specific examples of past experiences
- Be honest about your availability and preferences
🌍 Bonus Tip: Armenian Text to Speech Tools for Multilingual Homes
In bilingual or Armenian-speaking households, Armenian text to speech (TTS) tools can help nannies and children:
- Learn Armenian pronunciation
- Read stories together in Armenian
- Understand emergency instructions
- Use apps or devices for Armenian language support
These tools promote language development and cultural connection in mixed-language families.
❓ FAQ – Nanny Interview Questions
1. Should I run a background check after the interview?
Yes. Even after a great interview, a background check ensures extra safety and trust.
2. Can I interview a nanny with my child present?
Yes! It helps you see how the nanny interacts with your child and whether there’s chemistry.
3. What’s a red flag during a nanny interview?
Vague answers, discomfort with safety questions, or unwillingness to share references may indicate concern.
🧸 Final Thoughts
Choosing or becoming a nanny is a major decision—but with the right nanny interview questions and answers, both parents and caregivers can feel prepared and confident.
Whether you’re hiring a full-time nanny, part-time babysitter, or live-in caregiver, this guide gives you the foundation for a thoughtful, safe, and successful interview.
Trust, communication, and alignment are key—and a great interview is the first step.