Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Nursery Nurse Roles – 2025

Are you preparing for an interview for a nursery nurse role? Here is a comprehensive list of 20 up-to-date questions and their simple answers to help you demonstrate your experience, skills, and passion for working with young children. These questions cover a range of topics, from understanding child development to handling difficult situations with parents and caregivers.

General Questions

• 1. What motivated you to become a nursery nurse?
  Being a nursery nurse is a rewarding job that allows me to contribute to the growth and development of children. I am passionate about providing a nurturing and safe environment for young learners, and I am excited to guide them in their early learning journey.
• 2. How do you ensure that children are safe in your care?
  Safety is of utmost importance in a nursery setting. I always conduct regular safety checks of the premises, ensure that all toys and equipment are age-appropriate and in good condition, and closely supervise children during activities and playtime. I am also trained in first aid and have experience in handling emergencies.
• 3. How do you build positive relationships with parents and caregivers?
  Building a strong partnership with parents and caregivers is crucial in a nursery environment. I make sure to keep them updated on their child's progress and communicate openly and effectively about any concerns or issues. I also make an effort to understand and accommodate their preferences and requests.
• 4. How do you handle difficult behavior in young children?
  Children often exhibit challenging behavior as they are still learning to express themselves. I first try to understand the root cause of their behavior and then address it with patience and positive reinforcement. I also create a calm and predictable routine to help children feel secure and reduce any outbursts.
• 5. How do you encourage and support a child’s development?
  Every child is unique, and I strive to create a learning environment that caters to their individual needs and interests. I use a mix of play-based and structured activities to stimulate their cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. I also document and track each child's progress to identify areas for improvement.

Experience & Skills

• 6. In your previous experience, how have you handled a child with special needs?
  Working with children with special needs requires patience, understanding, and adapted teaching methods. In my previous role, I was responsible for a child with autism and developed a personalized approach that catered to their needs and helped them progress in their development.
• 7. Can you give an example of a successful activity you planned for young children?
  I love planning creative and engaging activities for children. In my last job, I organized a sensory bin activity that involved exploring different textures, scents, and colors. It was a big hit with the children and helped enhance their sensory development and fine motor skills.
• 8. How do you handle conflicts or disagreements with co-workers?
  As a team member, I believe in open and respectful communication to resolve conflicts. In my previous role, my colleague and I disagreed on a particular activity, but we compromised and came up with a solution that satisfied both of our perspectives. We also made sure to discuss any issues in a private and professional manner.
• 9. How do you handle a child who is grieving or struggling with emotions?
  Children may experience difficult emotions, and as a nursery nurse, I am trained to provide emotional support and guidance. I offer a listening ear, validate their feelings, and provide them with tools to cope, such as talking about their feelings, drawing, or deep breathing exercises. I also consult with the child's parents or a mental health professional if needed.
• 10. How do you handle difficult or uncomfortable questions from children?
  As a nursery nurse, I understand the importance of being honest and age-appropriate when responding to children's questions. I address any difficult or uncomfortable questions with sensitivity and provide accurate information at their level of understanding. I also respect a child's boundaries and do not push them to share anything they are not comfortable with.

Child Development & Safety

• 11. How do you incorporate diversity and inclusion in your teaching?
  Diversity and inclusion are crucial values that I promote in my teaching. I use diverse and inclusive materials, books, and activities to expose children to different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. I also make sure to educate and encourage children to respect and appreciate diversity.
• 12. How do you handle a child with separation anxiety?
  Separation anxiety is a common issue in nursery settings, and I have experience in helping children cope with it. I communicate openly with the child and their parents, provide reassurance and comfort, and gradually introduce them to the new environment and routine. I also involve them in fun activities and building a positive relationship with me and their peers.
• 13. How do you ensure that children with allergies are safe in your care?
  Allergies are a serious concern in a nursery setting, and I take all necessary precautions to keep children with allergies safe. I carefully check and label all food and provide alternatives for those with dietary restrictions. I also educate other children and staff about the dangers of food allergies and how to avoid cross-contamination.
• 14. Can you provide an example of how you promote hygiene and cleanliness in the nursery?
  Promoting good hygiene and cleanliness is essential in a nursery setting to prevent the spread of illnesses. In my previous job, I created a visual and interactive hand-washing chart for children to follow, and I also involved them in cleaning up their play area after activities. I also regularly sanitize toys and surfaces to maintain a clean environment.
• 15. How do you handle a child who is being bullied or excluded by classmates?
  As a nursery nurse, I am trained to spot signs of bullying and address it promptly and sensitively. I encourage children to express their feelings and help them develop empathy towards others. I also involve their parents and work with the classroom to foster a safe and inclusive environment for all children.

Company Culture & Values

• 16. What do you know about our nursery's philosophy and approach to early childhood education?
  Before applying for this role, I researched your nursery's website and social media channels to gain an understanding of your values and beliefs. I appreciated the focus on play-based learning and catering to each child's individual needs and interests, and I am excited to be a part of such a nurturing and inclusive environment.
• 17. How do you contribute to creating a positive and collaborative team environment?
  As a team member, I believe in open and respectful communication and supporting and learning from my colleagues. I have a friendly and empathetic nature that helps me build strong relationships with my teammates. I also like to bring creative ideas and solutions to team meetings and activities.
• 18. How do you prioritize and manage your tasks and responsibilities?
  Working in a nursery requires excellent time management and organizational skills. I make sure to plan my tasks and deadlines in advance and prioritize them based on their urgency and importance. I also communicate with my team about my workload and delegate tasks when necessary.
• 19. What are your career goals as a nursery nurse?
  As a passionate and dedicated nursery nurse, my long-term goal is to continuously grow and learn in my role, take on more responsibilities and eventually become a senior teacher or supervisor. I also plan to enhance my knowledge and skills through further educational courses and workshops.
• 20. How do you handle stress and maintain a positive attitude in a fast-paced nursery environment?
  In my experience, working in a nursery can be challenging, but also incredibly fulfilling. I cope with stress by staying organized, using positive self-talk, and taking breaks when needed. I also focus on the joy and satisfaction of working with children every day and adopt a growth mindset when facing challenges.