Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Full Time Nanny Roles – 2026

Are you interviewing for a full time nanny position? This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your experience, skills, and personality traits that are critical for the role. Whether you’re working in a private household or for a professional agency, these questions cover all aspects of being a full time nanny in 2026.

Experience & Past Work

• 1. Can you tell us about your previous experience as a full time nanny?
  A: As a full time nanny, I have worked for several families with children of varying ages, from infants to teenagers. I have also gained experience in managing multiple children at once, creating age-appropriate activities, and ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for the children.
• 2. What was the most challenging situation you faced while working as a full time nanny and how did you handle it?
  A: One of the most challenging situations I faced was when a child I was caring for suddenly fell ill. I remained calm and followed the instructions given to me by the parents and contacted emergency services when necessary. I provided timely updates to the parents and followed their instructions for caring for the child until they returned home.

Behavioral Questions

• 3. How do you handle difficult or demanding behavior from children?
  A: I believe in using positive reinforcement, redirection, and setting clear boundaries for children. I also practice active listening, empathy, and understanding the root cause of the behavior in order to address it effectively and calmly.
• 4. Can you tell us about a time when you had to adapt your caregiving style to meet the needs of a child with special needs?
  A: I have experience working with children who have special needs and understand that every child requires a unique approach. In one instance, I worked with a child with autism and used visual schedules and communication tools to help them feel more comfortable and confident in their daily routines. I also worked closely with therapists and educators to support the child's development.

Situational Questions

• 5. How would you handle a situation where a child refuses to follow your instructions?
  A: Depending on the situation, I would first try to understand the reason behind the child's refusal and find a way to engage them in the task or activity. If that doesn't work, I would use positive reinforcement and consequences to encourage their cooperation. I would also communicate with the parents about the situation to ensure consistency in discipline methods.
• 6. Imagine one of the children you care for is being bullied by a classmate. How would you handle this situation?
  A: I would first address the situation the child is facing, offer support and comfort, and then work with the child to develop strategies for responding to the bullying. I would also communicate with the school and the parents to address the issue and prevent it from happening again.

Technical Knowledge

• 7. Can you tell us about your knowledge of age-appropriate activities for children?
  A: I have experience working with children of different ages and am familiar with activities that are suitable and stimulating for each age group. I also stay updated on current trends and research to provide the best activities for children.
• 8. How would you handle an emergency situation with a child?
  A: I am trained in CPR and first aid and have experience responding to emergency situations. I would follow proper protocols, contact emergency services if necessary, and keep the parents informed at all times.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 9. Can you tell us about your approach to working in a multicultural environment?
  A: I have experience working with families from different cultural backgrounds and value diversity. I believe in respecting and incorporating cultural values into my caregiving and am adaptable to different family dynamics.
• 10. How do you handle conflicts with parents or other household staff?
  A: I prioritize open and respectful communication when it comes to conflicts with parents or other household staff. I listen to all perspectives and try to find a solution that benefits the children's well-being and maintains a positive working relationship.

Child Care Philosophy

• 11. How do you ensure the safety of the children in your care?
  A: Safety is always my top priority. I have a clear understanding of child-proofing techniques, basic first aid, and CPR. I also closely supervise children at all times and regularly assess the environment for potential hazards.
• 12. Can you tell us about your approach to discipline for children?
  A: I believe in positive reinforcement and setting clear boundaries for children. I also involve children in decision-making and encourage problem-solving skills. In case of serious behavior issues, I follow the parents' disciplinary methods with consistency and communication.

Time Management & Household Support

• 13. How do you manage your time and prioritize tasks while caring for multiple children?
  A: I am skilled in multitasking and have experience caring for multiple children with different schedules and needs. I prioritize tasks based on their urgency and involve the children in age-appropriate activities while completing household tasks.
• 14. In what ways do you support the household and parents in addition to caring for the children?
  A: As a full time nanny, I understand the importance of supporting the household and parents. I am willing to assist with household chores, run errands, and provide updates on the children's activities, needs, and development. I am also flexible and adaptable to the family's needs.

Conflict Resolution

• 15. Have you ever faced a difficult situation with a child's behavior and how did you address it with the parents?
  A: I am committed to maintaining open and honest communication with parents, and I have faced situations where a child's behavior caused concern. I calmly discussed the issue with the parents, shared my observations and strategies for addressing it, and worked together to find a solution.
• 16. How do you handle conflicts between siblings or children under your care?
  A: I believe in promoting positive relationships among children and encourage communication and problem-solving skills. I also monitor and address any conflicts that arise, provide age-appropriate consequences, and work with the children to find a resolution.

Self-Care & Professional Development

• 17. How do you manage your own self-care while working full time as a nanny?
  A: I understand the importance of self-care and make sure to take breaks, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and communicate my needs with the family. I also have a support system in place to care for myself mentally, emotionally, and physically.
• 18. What steps do you take to continue learning and improving your skills as a full time nanny?
  A: I regularly attend workshops, conferences, and training programs related to child care, child development, and other relevant topics. I also actively seek feedback and incorporate it into my caregiving practices to ensure the best care for the children.

Availability & Flexibility

• 19. Are you available to work flexible hours, including weekends and overnights?
  A: Yes, I am available to work flexible hours to meet the needs of the family. I understand that child care often requires working outside of regular hours, and I am willing to adapt to the family's schedule.
• 20. How do you handle sudden changes in plans or emergencies that require you to stay longer than expected?
  A: I understand that things can come up unexpectedly when caring for children, and I am prepared to be flexible and adaptable. I have a support system in place to ensure I can continue to provide high-quality care when needed.