How to Interview a Nanny: Building the Right Fit for Your Family

Hiring a nanny is one of the most important decisions you can make for your family. Beyond professional qualifications, you’re inviting someone into your home to play a vital role in your children’s daily lives. The interview is your opportunity to discover whether this person’s approach, personality, and values align with your own, going beyond the resumes and references that only provide a glimpse of a candidate’s background, 

At TLC Family Care, we take care of the heavy lifting—background checks, reference verification, skills assessments—so by the time you sit down to interview, you can focus on what truly matters: personal fit, communication style, and long-term compatibility.

Below, we’ve outlined key topics to cover during your nanny interview—along with sample questions to help guide your conversation.

1. Childcare Philosophy & Approach

Before diving into logistics, it’s important to understand how a nanny views discipline, learning, and emotional development. You want to ensure they will reinforce your parenting style.

Sample Questions:

• How do you typically handle tantrums, sibling disagreements, or challenging behavior?
• What methods do you use to encourage independence and positive habits?
• How would you handle a tough emotional day for a child?

Tip: Experienced nannies may be comfortable working within various parenting styles, so be clear about your expectations from the start.

2. Daily Responsibilities & Flexibility

From school drop-offs to meal prep, a nanny’s day often includes much more than childcare alone.

Sample Questions:

• Are you comfortable transporting children by car, public transit, or on foot?
• Would you be willing to help with light household tasks like children’s laundry or tidying play areas?
• Are you available for occasional travel or overnights?
• How do you feel about helping with homework or school projects?

Tip: Outline a “typical day” for your household and confirm the candidate is comfortable with it.

3. Experience & Background

This section helps you gauge a nanny’s professional journey and their comfort with situations similar to yours.

Sample Questions:

• How long have you been working as a nanny?
• What age groups do you have the most experience with?
• Have you cared for multiple children or worked alongside parents in the home?
• What do you enjoy most about this profession?

4. Communication & Professionalism

A successful relationship between a nanny and a family relies on open, respectful communication.

Sample Questions:

• How do you prefer to communicate updates—text, email, or in-person debrief?
• How do you like to receive feedback?
• What has helped you build strong relationships with past families?

5. Compensation, Legal Pay & Benefits

Transparency around pay and benefits sets the stage for a professional and respectful arrangement.

Sample Questions:

• Are you familiar with being paid legally, including tax withholdings?
• What benefits are important to you (e.g., paid time off, health reimbursement, retirement contributions)?
• Are you looking for a long-term position?

Tip: Legal pay not only ensures compliance but also attracts career nannies who value stability.

6. Scenario-Based Problem Solving

Asking “what if” questions can give you a sense of how the nanny handles real-life challenges.

Sample Questions:

• What would you do if both children were upset at the same time?
• How would you respond if a child refused to eat lunch?
• What’s your process if a child is injured at the park?

End the interview by giving your candidate time to ask questions about your family and expectations. Pay attention not just to their answers, but to their demeanor—do they seem warm, confident, and engaged?

Hiring a nanny can feel overwhelming, but with TLC Family Care’s screening process and your thoughtful interview, you’ll be well on your way to creating a partnership built on trust, respect, and care.

The professionals at TLC Family Care personally assist nannies, babysitters and families in St. Louis, Atlanta, Chicago, Nashville, Memphis, Charlotte, Miami and Orlando to find the right childcare arrangement. Our mission is to provide a safe and personalized  approach for families and caregivers to connect with each other that is not an internet search. TLC has worked with families, nannies, sitters, newborn care providers, and tutors for over 35 years and looks forward to working with you! To find great nanny and babysitting jobs visit us at tlc@tlcforkids.com or Call 314-725-5660.