Babysitter/Nanny Interview Questions

How do you feel about being a live-in babysitter/nanny?

This question is really a test of your comfort level and preference. People with jobs where they are constantly surrounded by children can enjoy the experience, but not all do. Your answer should reflect your attitude toward this kind of job.

Example answer: "I actually like the idea of living with the children because it allows me to get to know them better. It is easier to form a strong bond if I am living with them. Living in also allows me to help parents with after-hour emergencies."

How do you feel about working with other people's children?

Your answer should demonstrate your passion for children. Employers select candidates who are enthusiastic and engaging. It is important to convey the fact that you love working with children and put their needs first. This will increase the likelihood that you can build a strong, healthy relationship with the children in your care.

Example answer: "I have always been fascinated with children. They are so open and honest and love to learn about the world. I get so much joy from watching children grow, play and develop their personalities."

What do you know about the parents of the children you will babysit?

This question is a great way for employers to check whether you will be a good fit for their family as a whole. Your answer should show that you care about parents as well as children, and do your best to play a role in the family. This will show that you will be able to provide the kind of care that will make parents comfortable leaving their children in your care.

Example answer: "I have spent a lot of time growing alongside the families of the children in my care. This includes getting to know parents and being sure we have a shared approach to how to encourage growth in their young ones."

Describe a time when you had to talk to a parent about their child.

Babysitting or caring for someone else's kids can be a huge responsibility, especially when children are young. In this answer, demonstrate your knowledge of children's developmental stages and how you handle behavioral issues. An effective response should include your approach to communicating with the parents.

Example answer: "One evening, a mother called me to ask about her 3-year-old daughter, who was acting oddly. She thought maybe she was sick or had eaten something that didn't agree with her. I went to check on the child and found that she was in fact sick. I worked with the parents to get a pediatrician appointment scheduled, then helped administer her prescribed medications until she recovered."

What are your childcare goals?

Most families want a nanny with a genuine interest in children. The interviewer wants to know if you're up for the challenge. You might not know everything you'll be asked to do, but you should be able to talk about your experiences with children of different ages and what your goals are for being a nanny.

Example answer: "I love working with children. I am comfortable around all ages, and I have extensive experience caring for infants as well as some experience working with school-age children. I love working with children because they are so honest and unpretentious. My goal as a nanny is to help children feel happy and relaxed. I believe that happy children are more open to learning and just being kids."

How do you feel about staying overnight at your employer's house?

Your answer should demonstrate that you would be comfortable staying overnight at your employer's house. Employers will probably want to know if you have ever had any problems while staying overnight at a home and whether you feel comfortable staying overnight at their home.

Example answer: "I am comfortable staying overnight at an employer's home. I have experience watching children for long weekends while their parents are away. I always exercise the utmost safety and am conscientious about mealtime, bathtime, bedtime and other routines. I have stayed overnight at others' homes in the past and have never encountered any issues."

Describe a time when you had to discipline a child.

This is an opportunity for you to show that you are confident and have the ability to handle difficult situations with children. Employers want to ensure that you are a responsible childcare provider. Your answer should also show your ability to use positive reinforcement and deal with a wide range of situations.

Example answer: "I was watching a 9-year-old boy for his summer vacation and had to discipline him for misbehaving during the day. He was disobeying my directions, talking back to me and even being mean to his sister. I talked calmly to him and explained that I wouldn't be able to continue watching him if he didn't stop. I was able to show him that his behavior was wrong and set a new expectation. His parents were grateful for my intervention."

How do you manage children of different ages?

This is a common question for babysitters or nannies. The employer wants to know that you know how to keep all the children safe and happy. In your answer, include the ages of the children you have cared for, what activities you've done with them and how you've kept them entertained.

Example answer: "I have cared for three-year-old twins and a five-year-old. I regularly take them to the park, where we play on the swings and slides. Sometimes, I just sit and play blocks or read books to them. We always come back for a nap, because naptime is very important! I also work with them to improve their hand-eye coordination. They each have bikes, so I've taught them how to ride them. The three-year-olds have scooters, and they run along the sidewalk. I'm patient and firm with them."

Describe a time when you had to be careful around children.

Hiring managers will ask questions like this one to see how you react to difficult situations and how you communicate with children. Your answer should show you are capable of handling your responsibilities.

Example answer: "I babysat a seven-year-old girl who had a tendency to be aggressive and run around the house. I was cautious around her so I could keep her safe and manage her behavior. She didn't want to be babysat, so I was able to persuade her to join me in the backyard. I sat her down with a snack, and we had a very good time playing in the sun. Then it was quiet time. I was able to read her a story and help her relax. After a while, she told me, "you are the best babysitter ever!"