Family Care 101: 40 Questions to Ask When Interviewing a Babysitter
Jan 19, 2025 | By HappyTask Blog Team
Photo: [insert source of the photo]
Finding the right babysitter or nanny is about trust and ensuring your child’s safety. Use this interview question checklist to help you choose the perfect caregiver.
General Background
- Can you tell me about your previous babysitting or nanny experience?
- How long have you been working as a babysitter or nanny?
- Have you cared for children in the same age range as my child?
- Why do you enjoy working with children?
- Are you currently CPR and first-aid certified?
Responsibilities and Skills
- How would you plan a typical day with my child?
- How do you handle emergencies, such as injuries or accidents?
- Can you assist with homework or educational activities for my child?
- Are you comfortable preparing meals and snacks for my child?
- Are you willing to help with light household tasks related to the child (e.g., tidying up toys, washing bottles)?
Behavior Management and Discipline
- How do you handle tantrums or behavioral challenges?
- How do you set boundaries or rules with children?
- Can you give an example of a time you diffused a challenging situation with a child?
Photo by Lina Kivaka
Health and Safety
- Have you ever handled a medical emergency while babysitting? How did you respond?
- Are you comfortable administering medications if needed?
- Do you have any allergies or physical limitations that might affect your ability to care for my child?
- Are you familiar with childproofing measures or safety practices for toddlers and young children?
Flexibility and Availability
- What days and times are you typically available?
- Are you open to occasional evening or weekend babysitting?
- Are you able to provide short-notice care in emergencies?
Personality and Compatibility
- How do you usually build trust and a good relationship with children?
- What types of activities do you enjoy doing with kids (e.g., crafts, outdoor play, reading)?
- Do you have a personal philosophy about childcare or parenting that guides your work?
- How do you typically communicate with parents about their child’s day?
References and Background
- Can you provide references from previous families you’ve worked with?
- Have you ever undergone a background check? If not, would you be willing to?
- Do you have reliable transportation to and from my home?
- Have you ever worked with children who have special needs?
Situational and Hypothetical
- What would you do if my child refused to eat their lunch?
- How would you handle bedtime if my child didn’t want to go to sleep?
- What would you do if my child got hurt while playing?
- How would you respond if my child started crying and wouldn’t stop?
- How would you handle a situation where a stranger approaches my child at the park?
Photo by Kampus Production
Special Needs or Unique Situations
- Are you familiar with caring for children with allergies, sensory issues, or developmental delays?
- How would you respond to a medical device alarm (e.g., for asthma or diabetes)?
- Are you open to working with therapists or specialists if my child requires additional support?
Wrap-Up
- Do you have any questions for me about my child, our family, or the role?
- Are there specific types of children or environments you’re most comfortable with?
- What do you think makes a successful babysitter-parent relationship?
- Is there anything you’d like to share that we haven’t discussed?
Pro Tip for Parents
- Pay attention to the babysitter’s demeanor during the interview. Are they warm, patient, and confident?
- Involve your child in the process if possible, and observe how the candidate interacts with them.
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