Nanny Screening Questions

Structured interview questions to ask when screening nanny or babysitter candidates. Cover experience, logistics, safety, and compatibility.

17 items

Tell me about yourself — where are you from and your childcare experience?EssentialDo

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

What are your availability, punctuality expectations, and salary range?EssentialDo

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

How do you handle vacation, sick days, and emergency leave?Essential

Do

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

What start date works for you?EssentialDo

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

How long have you been working with infants/toddlers specifically?EssentialDo

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

What ages were the last two children you cared for, and how long did you stay with each family?EssentialDo

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

What were your exact daily responsibilities with those children?EssentialDo

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

Are you comfortable in a home with pets?Do

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

Walk me through how you handle nap time for an infant.EssentialDo

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

What activities do you do for sensory and learning development?EssentialDo

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

How do you handle tantrum-like frustration at this age?EssentialDo

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

Are you CPR and First Aid certified? When was your last training?EssentialDo

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

Have you worked in homes where both parents work hybrid and are present sometimes?Do

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

What is your usual commute like, and what happens if there is traffic?EssentialDo

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

How do you handle days when the baby is sick?EssentialDo

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

Are you open to a long-term commitment if things go well?EssentialDo

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

Do you have references I can speak with today?EssentialDo

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

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