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The questions to ask in an interview with a childcare assistant
interview childcare assistant

How to handle the first meeting

Monday is the big day, you have a interview with Jade who could become the childminder your little darling.
This is probably the most important step in your search for licensed nanny. We suggest you prepare your questions a few days before the appointment, so you feel ready to answer any questions!
Try to bring you children with you: you can see how they behave with her and vice versa. Feeling a little nervous? Don't worry about it, her too!  

Questions about the childcare assistant and her home.

All your questions will help you determine if this is approved nanny for you. Don't hesitate to put little notes on your questionnaire (1 to 5), especially if you are meeting with several childcare assistants. 

In theory, the childcare assistant will tell you about herself. If she forgets to mention a few things, ask her about the following subjects:

  • Her residence: how many people live there, are they smokers? Are there animals?
  • Her childcare experience: how long has she been a home childcare assistant? Does she have certificates or degrees in Early Childhood Education or Development?
  • The children that she currently cares for: how many are there? How many is she permitted to care for? Are there children that she picks up from school?
  • Her home: is it safe? Is there a room specifically for the children? Where do the children sleep? Can you visit it?
  • The activites she offers: hands-on activites, which ones? Walks? Children's playgrounds? Parks?
  • Childcare equipment: Highchairs, strollers, etc. Does she have everything, do you need to bring anything?
  • Meals: who prepares them? If it's her, ask her for an example of the menu.

These questions will give you a clear idea of the care offered!

Should you discuss money during the first interview?

Often, it is already done! When you called, you certainly raised the issue of the hourly rate.
During the first meeting you can refine the various aspects to be included in the contract, they are:

  • Holidays, yours and hers. Does she expect you pay the same monthly rate when you go on vacation? When does she take her holidays?
  • If she charges extra for food, maintenance and gas allowance (if you require her to bring your child to her dance lessons, for example), how much?
  • Does she work on statutory holidays? 
  • Would she be willing to work additional hours or overtime? How much would she charge?

The more comprehensive and well put together your contract is, the less risk there is for conflict. 

Other examples of questions

And if I arrive late, does it work? Will you take my dearest if he has a slight fever? What about chickenpox?
Do not hesitate to ask these questions, they are also important
We also recommend that you read this super helpful list of questions to ask during the interview.

Never forget...

Hiring a home daycare provider isn't just about agreeing on the basics of the contract. You need to feel that your child will not only be safe but also be cared for. Throughout her struggles to find childcare in Calgary, blogger Heather Eigler has come to the conclusion that "sometimes our gut feelings are all we can rely on" when looking for suitable childcare. Read the full post on her blog Home to Heather.

 When you entrust your child to a childcare assistant, it is his life that you put in her hands. Accidents are rare but they can happen whether they are the responsibility of the nanny or not.

See also:

Finding a childcare assistant whom you can trustfind childcare provider
The first days of care with the childcare providerbeginning home daycare
The daily routine with your childcare providerroutine home daycare
The end of the contract with your childcare providerend home childcare