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Questions to practise
What does a normal weekday look like when you look after children?
The parent wants to see that you can plan a day and give children structure.
Go in order: morning, lunch, rest, play, dinner. Say 'first', 'then', 'after that'. Include meals, play, rest and outings. Add one real detail, like 'After lunch, the children rest. Then we play outside.'
Our children are four and seven. How would you plan a day for both of them?
Children of different ages need different things. The parent wants to see you can care for both.
Give one idea for each child. For example, a short story and nap for the younger one, homework help for the older one. Then say something they can do together, like a walk or drawing.
How do you keep young children safe at home?
Safety is the most important part of the job. The parent wants concrete habits, not general words.
Give two or three habits. For example: 'I check the room for small objects and sharp things. I keep cleaning products up high. I stay close when children are near water.'
How do you keep children safe outside, for example at the park?
Outside there are roads, strangers and play equipment. The parent wants to know you watch carefully.
Talk about holding hands near roads, staying close at the park and keeping the children where you can see them. You can add: 'I keep my phone away so I can watch them.'
What would you do if my son hit another child?
The parent wants to see that you stay calm and have clear steps for bad behaviour.
Answer step by step. First, make sure both children are safe. Then kneel down, speak calmly and explain to him that hitting hurts. Help him say sorry when he is ready. Finally, tell the parent the same day.
Tell me about a time a child in your care was upset for a long time. What did you do?
Real examples show how you act under stress. The parent wants patience and kindness.
Tell a short story: what happened, what you did, how it ended. Use calm steps: stay close, speak softly, offer a hug or a quiet place, and wait. Start with 'Let me tell you about a time when I looked after a child.'
How do you stay calm when a child is crying or angry?
Children feel your mood. The parent wants a calm adult in the home.
Name one or two things you do. For example: 'I take a deep breath. I kneel down to the child's level. I use a quiet voice and name the feeling: You are sad because...'
How will you keep me informed about the children's day?
Parents want to feel included and never surprised. Good communication builds trust.
Say when and how. For example: 'At pick-up, I tell you how the day went. I can also send a short message at lunchtime.' Ask what the parent prefers: messages, calls or a notebook.
If there is a small accident, like a fall or a bump, what would you do?
The parent wants to know you act quickly and never hide problems.
First, help the child and check they are okay. Comfort them. Then tell the parent. Say clearly: 'I would tell you the same day, even about small things.' Honesty matters more than a perfect day.
Why do you want to work as a nanny?
The parent wants to understand your motivation and see if you will stay and care.
Do not only say 'I love children'. Add a reason and a real example from your life. Use your own example, for instance: 'I enjoy helping children learn new things. I once helped a child learn to ride a bike.'
Let me tell you about a time when I looked after a child.
Clara
AI coach
Leo
AI coach
Lines to try
Let me tell you about a time when I looked after a child.
First, I make sure the child is safe.
After lunch, the children rest. Then we play outside.
If a child is upset, I stay calm and kneel down.
I would tell you the same day, even about small things.
How would you like me to send you updates?
Common questions
What if I don't have nanny experience?
Use other examples with children. Maybe you cared for younger brothers or sisters, nieces, nephews or neighbours' children. Maybe you helped at a school or club. Explain what you did and what you learned. Real examples help more than a long list of jobs.
My English is not perfect. What should I do?
Speak slowly and use short sentences. Words like 'first', 'then' and 'after that' make your answers clear. If you don't understand a question, say: 'Sorry, could you say that again, please?' Parents care most that you are calm, safe and honest.
Can I ask the parent questions too?
Yes, it is a good idea. You can ask about the children's routines, food, favourite games and rules at home. You can also ask how they want you to send updates. Good questions show that you care about the children.