How to Interview a Nanny: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents
Hiring a nanny isn’t just about checking resumes — it’s about finding the right fit for your family. The interview is your chance to dig deeper and discover whether a candidate has the values, experience, and personality that match your parenting style and household needs. At InHome Care Solutions, we believe support should feel personal — and the right interview process ensures just that.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you confidently interview a potential nanny:
1.Set the Tone
Start with a warm welcome. The more relaxed your candidate feels, the more authentic your conversation will be. Offer water or coffee, and explain how the interview will be structured.
2. Review the Basics First
Go over the candidate’s resume or application and confirm:
Work history and childcare experience
Certifications (CPR/First Aid, early childhood education, etc.)
Availability and schedule preferences
Wage expectations and overtime policies
3. Ask Open-Ended Questions
Get beyond “yes” or “no” answers with thoughtful, open-ended questions like:
“What do you love most about working with children?”
“Can you tell me about a time you had to handle a child’s tantrum?”
“How do you approach discipline?”
“How would you spend a typical day with my child?”
4. Discuss Real-Life Scenarios
Pose “what-if” questions to evaluate how they handle common situations:
What would you do if my child had a fever while I’m at work?
How do you keep children engaged without screen time?
How do you handle disagreements with parents?
5. Talk About Parenting Style
Make sure their caregiving philosophy aligns with yours:
Do they support gentle parenting, time-outs, or another method?
Are they comfortable following a strict routine or a more flexible structure?
6. Watch the Interaction
If possible, let your child meet the nanny. Watch how they engage with your child — are they warm, attentive, and patient?
7. Check References Thoroughly
Ask for at least two references and follow up with detailed questions about the nanny’s performance, reliability, and how they handled stressful situations.
8. Be Clear About Expectations
Outline duties and household rules:
Will the nanny do light housekeeping or laundry?
Are they expected to cook?
What boundaries should they follow in your home?
9. Trust Your Instincts
Sometimes, it’s a gut feeling. If something doesn’t sit right — even if everything looks good on paper — keep searching. The right nanny will feel like a natural addition to your family.
Final Tip: Consider a Trial Period
Before making a full-time offer, consider a one-week paid trial. It’s a great way to see how the nanny fits into your family’s rhythm before committing long-term.
Need Help Finding the Right Fit?
At InHome Care Solutions, we do more than just match families with nannies — we build lasting relationships based on trust, reliability, and heart. Let us help you find a nanny who feels like family.
📞 Contact us at
440 287 1613 mg@4nannyplacements.com
