Nanny Screening Questions

Open-ended icebreaker. Look for warmth, communication skills, and genuine interest in childcare.

Clarify days/hours, start time flexibility, hourly or weekly rate, and overtime policy.

Discuss PTO policy, notice requirements for time off, and backup plan when they are unavailable.

Align with your timeline — ideally a few weeks before due date for overlap and training.

Look for at least 2+ years of hands-on infant experience, not just older kids.

Short tenures (under 6 months) can be a red flag — ask why they left each position.

Look for specifics: feeding schedules, nap routines, activities — not vague answers.

Mention specific pets. Allergies or discomfort with animals can be a dealbreaker.

Listen for safe sleep practices, routine awareness, and patience with resistant sleepers.

Good nannies have a repertoire of age-appropriate activities, not just screen time.

Look for calm, patient approaches — distraction, validation, not punishment.

This should be non-negotiable. Offer to pay for recertification if it has lapsed.

Some nannies struggle with parents watching. Gauge their comfort level.

Reliability is critical. Understand their backup plan for late arrivals.

Will they still come? Do they know when to call you vs. handle it? Fever protocols?

You want stability. Frequent nanny changes are disruptive for the child.

Call references the same day while your impression is fresh. Ask specific questions.