Embarking on the journey to find the perfect nanny for your family should be as heartwarming as it is vital. It's about connecting with someone who will nurture and enrich the life of your most precious treasure—your child. At Mayflower, we not only offer a guiding hand through this exciting phase but also ensure you feel supported and confident every step of the way. Below are some resources to get you starting in your nanny interviewing process.

What steps should I take to begin the interview process?

We at Mayflower recommend beginning with a phone or virtual conversation (via Skype, FaceTime, etc.), followed by an in-person interview—ideally when your children are present so you can observe their interactions firsthand. Lastly, we suggest arranging a trial period with your family. Taking your time with these steps helps ensure you select the perfect nanny tailored to your family’s unique needs.

How do I choose candidates for a second interview?

Consider the following questions:

How well did the nanny connect with your children?

Would you feel comfortable with this individual in your home, possibly as a live-in nanny?

Do you feel at ease discussing any concerns openly with them?

Did the nanny demonstrate relevant experience and creativity in planning meals and activities?

Did they appear organized, enthusiastic, and aligned with your parenting style?

Are you comfortable with their proposed communication methods?

How do I conduct an effective in-person interview?

At Mayflower, we recommend the following steps for your in-person interview:

Begin by introducing the nanny to your children and clearly outlining your expectations. Take time to discuss your children’s daily routines, activities, and interests. Customize your questions to focus on the nanny’s previous experiences as well as your family’s unique needs. Finally, give the nanny a tour of your home, closely observing how they interact with your children throughout the visit.

What steps should I take immediately after the nanny interview?

After the interview, please contact Mayflower to let us know how it went. We’ll support you in deciding the next steps, whether that means scheduling an additional interview, arranging a trial period, or extending an offer. Our team is also available to assist with negotiations around salary and working hours, and we can provide you with contract templates to formalize the arrangement.

What are some sample nanny interview questions?

What age groups have you worked with previously?

• Can you describe your experiences caring for children and the kinds of indoor and outdoor activities you enjoy organizing?

• What types of meals would you typically plan for children during the week? (It’s okay if you’re unsure about their preferences at this stage.)

• What kind of weekly activities or outings would you consider arranging?

• Can you provide references or share any relevant portfolio materials?

• How would you describe your childcare approach, and how does it align with our parenting style?

• How do you prefer to handle daily communication (such as a daily diary or regular check-ins)?

• Do you have any special skills, certifications, or additional training relevant to childcare?

• Are you familiar with our local area and its resources?

Finally, invite the nanny to ask their own questions. This will give you deeper insight into their priorities and help them determine if the role aligns with their expectations.