Sometimes you might want to speak to more than one nanny, or speak to one nanny more than once! You can also be flexible in how you have the interview, phone calls, video calls or in-the-park meet-ups usually work well!
1. Have the basic facts to hand.
These should include:
- When you’ll need them to start (and if there is any set end date)
- Days and times needed, and any drop-offs and pickups
- Is any driving involved? (Pro tip – make sure the car will fit car seats!)
2. Talk through their experience
Ask them questions about their experience, including:
- How long have they been working in childcare for?
- What was their favourite childcare role, and why?
- What is their favourite age of child to work with, and why?
- What is their favourite activity to do with children?
3. Talk about your parenting style
The important things to mention here are:
- What kind of environment would you like the nanny to create for your child
- Whether you believe in any form of discipline, and if so how it is enforced
- Ask the nanny what their childcare philosophy is
- Talk about your child’s developmental stage
4. Mention arrangements for holidays
- Be aware that nannies usually get 20 days annual leave, plus 8 public holidays
- We recommend that you split these days, so that the nanny chooses 10 of these days and you choose the other 10
- Of course you can vary the above, it’s just a suggestion
- Let the nanny know about any holiday that you have already booked
Good luck – we hope it goes well!
