Ahh . . . summer. You just cleaned out that backpack and the last thing on your mind is the after-school care you’ll need this fall. But believe it or not, the heat of summer is the best time to look for after-school care. You can beat the rush, secure a great caregiver (or maybe two!), and then get back to the hard work of picnics and swimming in the pool.
But does the thought of finding someone who fits your needs and your family’s personality overwhelm you? I know finding the right person to care for your kids after school isn’t always easy, but take it from me, having a good list of interview questions ready to go makes all the difference. Asking the right interview questions (after your initial phone screen) makes finding the right after-school nanny easier, and you’ll have better success in the end.
I use this list as a starting point for interviews and then add lots of follow-up questions about first-aid training, driving and work experience.
1. Have you ever been an after-school nanny before?
Caring for kids after school is different from being a full-time nanny. The hours are shorter, but there’s still a lot of activity to pack into those minutes. After-school activities, homework, dinner and maybe even baths can get hectic!
2. What has been the toughest situation you’ve encountered as a nanny, and how did you handle it?
You’ll want to find out as much as you can about anyone you might hire. This question helps you figure out how they react and what their thought process is when under pressure.
3. Have you ever tutored kids or helped them with homework?
Your after-school nanny will probably have to help with math, science and reading. Depending on your kids’ ages, there could be lots of homework. Are they up to it? If you want to dig a little deeper, ask follow-up questions about how they keep kids focused on their tasks.
4. How do you stay organized when you have to bring kids to different after-school activities and playdates?
I know how tough it is to juggle all my kids’ activities and playdates on the weekends, so I stay super-organized. You’ll want to know how your after-school nanny will do the same in the face of a full calendar.
5. What are good activities to do with kids after school?
When homework is done and no activities are scheduled, how do you want your kids to spend their time? Find out what your after-school nanny likes to do with kids when the to-do list is done. Will she take them to the park or help them create a fantastic, messy craft? Will she bring them outside for ball games and scavenger hunts?
6. Do you have a job outside of nannying?
If your after-school nanny has another job, find out if it could cause any kind of schedule conflict. You don’t want her running late from her other job and miss picking up your kids at the right time!
With a list of really great questions, interviewing potential after-school nannies becomes not only easier, but more thorough, too. You’ll have an easier time finding a great fit for your family.
Are there other questions you like to ask?
Good luck!
6 Interview Questions to Ask an After-School Nanny
