What questions to ask Nanny references?

[Anonymous]

I have a preemie and am about to talk to references of a nanny we are interested in. I am tired and not thinking at my best and was looking for some guidance for good questions to ask the references. I know opened ended questions. But any specific questions that could help determine any concerns a reference has? Or to see if nanny was good at thinking on her feet or calm in an emergency?

My preemie has some respiratory, but not overly serious, issues. He is on oxygen.

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I have a preemie and am about to talk to references of a nanny we are interested in. I am tired and not thinking at my best and was looking for some guidance for good questions to ask the references. I know opened ended questions. But any specific questions that could help determine any concerns a reference has? Or to see if nanny was good at thinking on her feet or calm in an emergency?

My preemie has some respiratory, but not overly serious, issues. He is on oxygen.

Thanks!

What is your experience with preemies, and what should the potential nanny have for experience?

[Anonymous]

Are you sure you don't need a baby nurse??

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Are you sure you don't need a baby nurse??

OP Here - Am FTM in the medical field. Oxygen is at the lowest level and weaning off it.

[Anonymous]

With a preemie you probably want a nanny who is more comfortable not running around to lots of indoor places. While fresh air and walks are great for preemies, indoor play yards at the mall or little gym classes during RSV season aren't good options. One questions for employers would be how much free reign did the nanny have to go anywhere and where did she take her charges, was she able to come up with fun activities at home or was she the types who couldn't think of anything to do with out an outing everyday.

You may want to ask questions that get at how receptive the nanny was to following instructions and/or whether she still carried out parents wishes even if she preferred something else.

[Anonymous]

Questions to ask:

1) Did your child(ren) appear to enjoy her company. Did they seem to grow a bond with nanny.

2) How was your relationship with nanny? (Your as in MB/DB, whoever you're asking.)

3) How long was she employed with you?

4) Did she take initiative? Plan activities, playdates, etc? (Make sure the family allowed these type of outdoor activities and play-dates)

5) Would you consider her flexible

6) Did she have a good attendance record.

7) How was her general attitude during her time employed with your family? Would you describe her as optimistic, positive and happy? (Basically does she look at the glass as half FULL or half EMPTY)


You'll most likely be able to tell by the former employer's answers. If she starts off as "Yes, nanny was wonderful and my children absolutely loved her and enjoyed being around her." versus "Ehh, yeah she was ok my children didn't seem to have a problem with her"

[Anonymous]

PP again - you could also ask if she adapts well to change or if she likes routine. - Some nannies get bent out of shape when baby turns into toddler and their daily routine changes. They go from having alot of downtime to having to chase around an active toddler.

Also, does she take criticism well? If you had a minor issue with her performance and spoke to her about it would she secretly get upset and dwell on it or will she take it for what it is and attempt to correct it or try better?