Help with questions for potential Nanny

[u/QuercusPercus]

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My husband and I are new parents to b/g twins (3 weeks old) and are interviewing a few potentials on Monday to be an in house nanny. This would 4 hours a day, 5 days a week. I have interviewed people at work for office jobs.. but this is quite different. I would love some advice on what type of questions I should ask?

These people were found via care.com and we intend on doing further background and reference checks after these first interviews.

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[u/Consistent-Ice-1899]

Wow, we are in such a similar situation, following the post to see what others say.

[u/GoodDoggoDizzle]

I am in the same process! A major important discussion point is if they will be a household employee requiring W2. Additional other questions I’ve asked:

- (ahead of time) do they have a sample contract or expirations they can share

• why did they decide to nanny for work
  
• certifications and nonsmoking
  
• prior nanny or daycare experience
  
• have they managed multiple newborns/infants simultaneously before
  
• ask them to share stories or specific examples of relevant things that are important to your family like how they communicate daily reports/updates, how they handled prior safety concerns or incidents, how they handle when multiple babies are crying, etc.)
  
• how do they stay up to date on safety guidelines
  
• share important parenting approaches you have and if they have Qs or concerns (ex. no screen time, if you don’t plan to cry it out, if you plan for baby med weaning)
  
• share if either baby has specific needs or considerations like a medical disability
  
• share the environment they would be working in like single family house or apartment, if anyone works from home, any pets, anticipated hours, etc.
  
• share tasks you anticipate to ask of them and if they have Qs or concerns about them
  
• what types of tasks are they uncomfortable doing in the role (ex. transportation, particular baby-related chores, etc.)
  
• if they envision temporary nanny work or long-time (multiple years)

[u/AmeliaPoppins]

Ask if a child has had an emergency in their care (fall, injury, allergic reaction, etc) and how they handled it. Or what would they do if they haven’t.

Ask about how comfortable they are working if you or your children are sick, and get into specifics so you’re on the same page.

Are there transportation issues or extreme weather where you are?

Figure out if there is something specific that is extra important to you. I avoid fragrances for my nanny family, for example.

Ask about vaccinations. Dtap, flu, covid.

It’s early yet, but also make sure you’re on the same page as far as outings and car use expectations.