Babysitter Tips: What Questions to Ask Parents

15 Nov 2025

Whether you are a seasoned nanny or a first-time babysitter, asking the right questions during an interview with parents is crucial. These questions will help you understand their expectations, the child's needs, and how you can provide the best care possible.

1. Understanding the Child's Needs

The first step in providing excellent care is understanding the specific needs of the child. Ask questions like:

What is your child's daily routine? Understanding the child's schedule helps maintain consistency.
Does your child have any allergies or medical conditions? Knowing this is vital for ensuring the child's safety and well-being.
Are there any specific behavioral issues or techniques that work well with your child? This helps in managing any challenging situations effectively.
What are your child's favorite activities and hobbies? Engaging the child in activities they enjoy can make your time together more pleasant and productive.

2. Clarifying Expectations

Every family has different expectations for their babysitter or nanny. Clarify these by asking:

What are my specific duties and responsibilities? Understanding your role helps avoid any misunderstandings.
What is your policy on screen time and technology use? This helps align with the family's rules and expectations.
Are there any household rules I should be aware of? Knowing the house rules ensures consistency and respect for the family's values.
What are your expectations for discipline and behavior management? Understanding their approach to discipline is crucial for maintaining a harmonious environment.

3. Safety and Emergency Procedures

Safety is a top priority for any babysitter or nanny. Ensure you're prepared by asking:

Where are the emergency contacts and medical information located? This is essential for quick access in case of an emergency.
Do you have a first aid kit, and where is it located? Being prepared for minor injuries is crucial.
What is your preferred method of communication in case of emergencies? Knowing how to quickly reach the parents is important.
Is there a designated safe area in case of severe weather or other emergencies? This helps ensure you can keep the child safe in various situations.

4. House Rules and Logistics

Understanding the household logistics can make your job as a babysitter or nanny smoother. Ask about:

Is there a preferred bedtime routine? Maintaining the child's usual bedtime routine can help them feel secure and comfortable.
Are there any pets, and what are the care instructions for them? If there are pets, knowing how to care for them is important.
What is the policy on transportation and outings? Understanding if and how you can take the child outside or drive them is crucial.

5. Compensation and Scheduling

Clarifying compensation and scheduling details upfront is important for a transparent working relationship. Ask questions like:

What is the hourly rate or salary for this position? Knowing the pay rate ensures there are no surprises later.
How will payment be made, and what is the payment schedule? Understanding how and when you'll be paid is important.
What are the regular working hours, and is there any flexibility required? Knowing your schedule helps you plan accordingly.
Are there any additional duties outside of childcare, such as light housekeeping or meal preparation? Understanding the full scope of your responsibilities is crucial.

6. Building a Relationship with the Family

Building a positive relationship with the family can make your experience as a nanny or babysitter more rewarding. Consider asking:

What is the best way to communicate with you for day-to-day updates? Knowing the preferred communication method helps ensure smooth interactions.
Are there any cultural or religious practices I should be aware of? Being respectful and aware of the family's cultural or religious practices is important.
What qualities do you value most in a babysitter or nanny? Understanding what the parents value can help you align with their expectations.

Asking the right questions is key to establishing a successful and harmonious relationship with the families you work with. Whether you're a nanny or babysitter, being thorough in your inquiries helps you understand the family's needs, ensures the child's well-being, and creates a positive working environment. Remember, open and clear communication from the start sets the foundation for a trusting and effective caregiving experience.

At Aunty, we pride ourselves on providing qualified nannies and babysitters who are thoroughly vetted and trained to meet your family's needs. Our agency takes the hassle out of searching and verifying by facilitating and conducting comprehensive interviews with each candidate. For parents, this means peace of mind knowing that all crucial information is gathered and verified before you meet the caregiver. For nannies and babysitters, we streamline the process by obtaining detailed information from parents beforehand, ensuring you are well-prepared to provide exceptional care right from the start. Trust Aunty to make finding and working as a nanny or babysitter a seamless and efficient experience.