10 Essential Questions to Ask When Hiring A Nanny

Millions of parents in the United States have hired the help of nannies to help them watch over their kids while they're off at work or other events, and it's no secret as to why.

Quality nannies help keep your children safe and provide a stimulating home environment to them when parents are away. But hiring a babysitter for the first time can be a daunting task, especially if you aren't sure where to begin when it comes to getting to know a potential nanny.

You want to hire someone you trust entirely, someone who's reliable and friendly, but how can you tell if your potential nanny is truly the perfect match? Here, we're sharing the most important interview questions you need to ask before you choose a nanny to watch over your children. Keep reading to find out what they are!

1. Do You Have Experience With Children?

Most families wish to begin with a nanny who has some sort of background with children. Someone who has experience babysitting will know how to handle situations more effectively than someone who doesn't know how to interact with kids.

If the potential nanny does have the experience, ask them about what they liked and didn't like about their previous gigs. This will allow you to learn more about their personality and attitude.

2. What's Your Rate?

Today, the average babysitter charges a little over $13 an hour. Before you hire a nanny, it's important to make sure that you both agree on a rate, whether that's hourly or weekly.

3. What Do You Like Most About Kids?

To get a feel for a potential nanny's character and attitude when it comes to children, ask them what they enjoy about being around kids. If their eyes light up and they tell stories about kids that have touched their hearts in the past, chances are that she's a good candidate.

4. Do You Smoke or Have Pet Allergies?

You want your nanny to be as comfortable in your home as they are compatible with your family. So, asking if they smoke or have any pet allergies is a good way to see if their lifestyle or health restrictions will impact their ability to work in your home.

If they do have pet allergies, it's important to let them know if you have any pets that will be in the home while they're working. Depending on the severity of their allergies, they may or may not feel comfortable.

5. What Is Your Schedule Like?

One of the hardest parts about hiring a babysitter is finding one that has a schedule that works with yours. If they're still in school, they won't be able to watch your children until later in the afternoon.

Ask them what days they can work, how many hours they can work, and when they absolutely can't work. This will give you a feel for their availability and will help you decide if they're a good fit or not.

6. Do You Have References?

The best way to determine if a potential nanny is high-quality, you'll want a list of their references. Don't feel embarrassed to call up families that the nanny has worked with before!

By doing so, you'll learn a lot more about their nannying style and how they are with children when parents aren't present.

7. How Do You Discipline?

Chances are you're not going to be comfortable with a babysitter physically disciplining your kids. Instead, hire a babysitter who uses more effective methods such as short time-outs or private conversations.

Anyone who seems like they will be aggressive towards a misbehaving child is a definite red flag!

8. Would You Text Me Updates?

Lots of parents prefer an engaged babysitter that checks in with them from time to time. It gives parents peace of mind knowing that their child is doing well and is being looked after attentively.

Also, make sure that your potential babysitter wouldn't hesitate to call you during an emergency. A phone-shy nanny might not be willing to get ahold of you until it's too late, so keep this in mind while interviewing potential candidates.

9. Would You Feel Comfortable Driving?

Sometimes, activities like sports practices, instrument rehearsals, or doctor's appointments fall into the hands of nannies. This means that they should be comfortable transporting your children from destination to destination in their vehicle.

Express your expectations when it comes to safe driving, and make sure that the nanny will be willing to enforce seatbelts and other safety measures while your children are in the car.

10. Are You CPR Certified?

Nannies who are certified in CPR and/or first aid training show initiative and seriousness when it comes to their job. If your potential nanny is certified in these areas, you'll be able to rest assured that they can handle any health or injury situations that might occur while you're away.

Ask These Essential Questions Before Hiring a Nanny

When it comes to your children, you would never settle for anything less than the best, especially when it comes to hiring a nanny. And now that you're aware of what kind of questions to ask potential babysitters, you won't have to.

An exceptional nanny will have genuine, thorough, and positive responses to these questions. And when you do find the perfect match, you can monitor your home and children with one of our 360-degree nanny cams.

Interested in learning more about Know Your Nanny and what we can do for your home security? Contact us here today to speak to one of our friendly employees.