Tips for Hiring an In Home Childcare Provider

This week's parenting topic: Tips for hiring an in-home childcare provider

In-home childcare can take on many names, e.g., au pair, nanny, babysitter, mother's helper. Parents can find in-home childcare through placement agencies or by performing their own search and interview process. When a potential candidate is ready for the next steps, a telephone screening is recommended as well as personal background checks.

In this Internet age, an online search can be used to find any information on the prospective employee. After the initial screen, you'll want to schedule an initial interview. This first interview is an opportunity for both of you to become acquainted and ensure your attitudes toward child rearing are aligned. The children should not be around for this initial interview, so you may get to know each other without distractions.

Encourage the candidate to talk about previous experiences and ask why they enjoy working with children. A good interview should entail both talking and careful listening. Does the interviewee ask about your child's schedule, temperament, likes and dislikes? How much do they know about the developmental needs of children the same age as yours? Give examples of situations and ask how they would be handled.

If the first interview goes well, schedule a second interview for about an hour in duration. During the first half, you should introduce the child to the potential caregiver. Let the child stay with you and let them get used to this new person. For the next half hour, go into the next room so you may observe them with your child from a short distance. Prepare the child in advance by telling the child that you need to go to the bathroom or make a phone call. See how the candidate interacts with your child and responds to your child's actions. Keep in mind, there will be some tentativeness from both of them during these initial interactions.

The caregiver will be in your home with your child and it is important that they are the right person for your situation. Trust your instincts. If you are uneasy about someone, do not make a job offer. After the interview, give yourself and the candidate some time to think things over. Be sure to use this time to consider the salary and other benefits you are able to offer.

Questions for In-Home Childcare Interview

? What's your educational background?

? Tell me about your childcare experiences, previous jobs. What did you like/not like about them?

? Why did you leave?

? What is the best/worst childcare experience you have ever had?

? What would you do if my child had a high fever and you couldn't reach me?

? Have you ever cared for a colicky baby or a baby with any medical conditions?

Childcare Philosophy

? What do you think the primary responsibilities of this position are?

? Do you think routine is important? How do you develop a routine?

? Is it important to talk to an infant?

? What type of activities would you do with my child?

? How and when do you think children should be disciplined?

? Do you think a baby should be picked up whenever it cries?

? How would you comfort a crying child?

? How do you deal with a child who won't take a nap? If the child hits? Has a tantrum?

? How would you handle transition to a cup? Toilet training? Toddler bed?

Personal Information

? Tell me about your family and the environment you were brought up.

? Do you have siblings? How is your relationship with them?

? What do you like to do in your free time?

? Why do you want to be (or are) a child caregiver?

Family Relationship

? How would you handle a situation where you may disagree with me regarding a childcare issue?

? What positive changes will you be bringing to our family?

? What role do you see yourself playing as issues come up about my child's behavior?

A childcare provider is one of the most important positions to fill. Essentially this person will be co-parenting and you need to be sure that they will be loving, nurturing, supportive and aligned with your parenting style.

(Editor's Note: The opinions are not medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician about any changes you are contemplating.)

Rebecca Kammerer of Parents "R" Talking, Inc. l ParentsRTalking.com ParentsRTalking.com
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