When families in Alberta (or elsewhere) are hiring a nanny, there are several common questions they typically ask to ensure they make the right choice for their children and household. These questions often revolve around the nanny's experience, qualifications, and the logistics of the job. At Trusted Nanny Agency we ask the same questions to our candidates. Here's a list of some of the most frequently asked questions:

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1. What qualifications and experience do you have?

• Families want to know about the nanny's background, certifications, and relevant experience. For example, are they trained in First Aid/CPR, do they have experience with children of similar ages, or have they worked in a daycare or other caregiving role?

 

2. How do you handle discipline?

• Parents often want to know about the nanny's approach to discipline. This includes how they handle behavior issues, tantrums, and setting boundaries with the children.

 

3. Are you comfortable with our family’s specific needs?

• Families may have unique requirements, such as caring for a child with special needs, managing household chores, or preparing specific types of meals. It’s important for families to ask if the nanny is comfortable with these expectations.

 

4. Can you provide references from previous families you’ve worked with?

• Checking references is a critical step in the hiring process. Families want to hear from previous employers to get a sense of the nanny’s reliability, work ethic, and the quality of care they provide.

 

5. What is your availability?

• Many families have specific schedules that they need a nanny to accommodate. They’ll ask about the nanny's availability, including whether they are open to flexible hours, overtime, or occasional evening or weekend care.

 

6. How do you handle emergencies or unexpected situations?

• Parents want to be confident that the nanny will know what to do in case of an emergency. This could include medical emergencies, accidents, or other unexpected issues. It’s important to know if the nanny is trained in emergency protocols.

 

7. What is your approach to learning and development?

• Many families want a nanny who can engage their children in educational or enriching activities. They’ll ask about the nanny’s approach to age-appropriate learning, activities, and the overall developmental needs of the child.

 

8. What are your expectations for salary, benefits, and other compensation?

• Discussing compensation is one of the most important parts of the hiring process. Families will want to understand the nanny's expectations around salary, paid time off, and other benefits (e.g., transportation or meals).

 

9. Are you open to doing light housekeeping or meal preparation?

• Some families expect nannies to help with light household tasks, such as meal prep, laundry, or tidying up after the children. It’s important for families to clarify their expectations to avoid misunderstandings.

 

10. How do you handle screen time and activities?

• With screen time becoming an increasingly relevant topic for parents, families may ask about the nanny's approach to technology use. Do they allow TV or tablet time? How do they balance screen time with other activities?

 

11. How do you keep in touch with parents during the day?

• Communication is key, and parents often ask how the nanny plans to keep them updated on the children’s day. Whether through daily reports, text messages, or check-ins, parents want to ensure they feel involved and informed.

 

12. What are your long-term career goals?

• Families may want to know if the nanny plans to stay long-term. Nannies who are seeking long-term positions are often preferred, as families want consistency in their childcare.

 

13. Are you comfortable with pets or other animals in the home?

• If the family has pets, they will likely ask if the nanny is comfortable interacting with them, particularly if pets need care or attention during the day.

 

14. Do you have your own transportation?

• Many families need a nanny who can drive their children to school, activities, or appointments. If the family requires this, they’ll want to confirm that the nanny has a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

 

15. Do you have any questions for us?

• This is often asked at the end of the interview process. It’s important for families to know if the nanny has any questions or concerns about the job. It can also provide insight into whether they’ve carefully considered the position and the family’s needs.

 

Additional Considerations Specific to Alberta:

• Legal Requirements: Families often inquire about the legal side of hiring a nanny, such as contracts, taxes, and whether they need to provide worker’s compensation or other benefits specific to Alberta’s labor laws.

• Criminal Record Check: In Alberta, families may ask whether the nanny is willing to undergo a criminal record check, particularly for offenses related to children or vulnerable individuals.

 

Final Tips for Families Hiring a Nanny in Alberta:

• Be clear about your expectations: Set clear boundaries and expectations from the beginning regarding tasks, work hours, and the nanny's role in the household.

• Make sure you're on the same page: Have a thorough discussion about your parenting philosophy, especially concerning discipline, screen time, and educational activities.

• Legal and contractual protections: Families should ensure that a contract is signed that outlines responsibilities, hours, salary, and other important details to protect both parties legally.