As a mother of four and a professional with decades of experience in childcare, I’ve been through many interviews, both as a candidate and in guiding new parents through the hiring process. I know how overwhelming it can feel, and my goal is to help you navigate it with confidence. With the right steps and documentation in place, you can save valuable time and avoid stressful surprises later on.

Starting the Process

Once you’ve reviewed resumes and narrowed down your choices, you’ll be ready to interview. It’s perfectly fine to set aside applications that don’t meet your family’s specific needs; this allows you to focus on those who are most likely to be a great match.

Some parents like to interview several candidates, and I’ve even known families who met with fourteen or fifteen nannies before making their decision. There’s no “right” number; the key is finding someone who will be with you long-term, someone you feel comfortable welcoming into your home and family life.

The Interview

Interviews might last no more than an hour each, but depending on availability and needs, the process can take weeks or even months. It’s rare to find someone who checks every box immediately, but that’s okay. No one will ever replace you. The right person will stand out as you go through the process. You guide your new assistant during a trial session, and if she meets your criteria, she will understand your family’s rhythm, and soon you will know you made the right choice.

Preparation Is Key

Before inviting a candidate into your home, even if recommended by a trusted agency, prepare a list of important questions and the documents you’ll require before hiring. In my experience, there will always be more to consider, especially when hiring initial help. Follow this link to learn more.

The interview is not only for you to learn about the nanny; it’s also her opportunity to understand what kind of support, respect, and security you will offer in return for her dedication. Openly discussing pay, expectations, and boundaries clarified from the start helps ensure a healthy, professional relationship.

On this website, you’ll find sample questions you can adapt for your interviews. Browsing these resources will help you create a list that’s tailored to your family’s needs.

Listening to Nannies’ Perspectives

Over the years, I’ve spoken with many nannies, and I believe their voices deserve to be heard, especially by new parents. While agencies can be helpful, the nanny you hire will be the one representing your family both inside and outside the home.

Hearing directly from nannies about their experiences, whether in parks, playgroups, or day-to-day life, can give you valuable insights. Some stories may sound like complaints at first, but often they reveal ideas and solutions worth considering. You’ll find a few of these shared here, always with respect for confidentiality.

Explore, Learn, and Enjoy

This website is full of resources, from checklists and hiring tips to poems and songs I’ve collected over the years. You can browse freely, knowing each page links back to where you came from, so you won’t lose track.

If you have questions, need guidance, or want to say hello, I’d love to hear from you. I respond to every message.