Nanny Interview Questions Every NYC Parent Should Ask

Bringing someone new into your home to care for your child is a big decision. For New York parents especially, the nanny search can feel overwhelming: the options are endless, the process is competitive, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. At Cedar Care, we know the right questions can help you move from uncertainty to clarity when interviewing candidates.

Here are 10 essential nanny interview questions every NYC parent should ask:

1. What experience do you have with children my child’s age?
   Every developmental stage is different. A nanny experienced with infants may not have the same toolkit for toddlers or school-age kids.
   

2. What does a typical day with children look like for you?
   This gives you insight into their caregiving style and whether it aligns with your family’s rhythms.
   

3. How do you handle discipline?
   Alignment here is key. You want consistency between how you and your nanny respond to challenging behavior.
   

4. What activities do you enjoy doing with children?
   This reveals whether your nanny brings creativity, structure, and joy to the job.
   

5. How do you communicate with parents throughout the day?
   Some families prefer frequent updates; others, a summary at day’s end.
   

6. What training or certifications do you hold?
   CPR, First Aid, newborn care specialist training, or early childhood education credentials matter.
   

7. What’s your approach to screen time?
   A hot topic for many NYC families — it’s good to get clear early.
   

8. What’s been your biggest challenge as a nanny, and how did you handle it?
   This highlights problem-solving skills.
   

9. What are your expectations around scheduling, overtime, and flexibility?
   Especially important in a city where hours can shift quickly.
   

10. Do you have references I can speak with?
    Always non-negotiable.
    

Pro Tip: Make this interview a two-way conversation. Invite your nanny candidate to ask questions, too.

At Cedar Care, we guide families through this process with confidence, pairing you with caregivers who meet both your practical needs and your parenting philosophy. Learn more about our Nanny Placement Services.