I always ask about both, especially if it involves young children. Good luck, OP!

I always ask about my shoes. As for washing the hands, of they ask me if I would like to hold the baby I then would ask if it would be alright if I can wash my hands first.

Yes on both questions.

Even if people are laid back, it's always a nice gesture to ask.

OP here. Thank you all. Will report back later...

Yes to both

Anonymous wrote:Yes to both, esp. with an 8mo old.

MB here - agree.

I wouldn't worry about the shoes (unless you see that everyone else has shoes off).

I would respect you washing your hands before holding the child. Even if I'm not worried about that stuff it demonstrates sensitivity and care - great things to show in an interview.

My nanny asked me how I liked clothes folded in our interview. I was floored - not something I'd even considered worrying about but she was wanting to get a sense of me and I respect that. Never hurts to ask.

Good luck!

I would be VERY impressed about the hand washing. I'm sure parents will especially appreciate that during these winter months, AKA flu and RSV season

I have a no-shoes household. When you walk into our front door, you see a slew of shoes nearby. That should be your clue it's a no-shoes house.

When I had a newborn and again during cold & flu season, I asked people to wash their hands upon arriving. Lastly, I personally use mass transit all the time, so when I arrive anywhere, I promptly wash my hands.

If you wanted to score points with me you would arrive and promptly ask if you should take off your shoes and then where you can wash your hands.

Yes to both, esp. with an 8mo old.

Thanks. The baby is 8 months old which is why I asked about washing hands. I usually work with older kids.

Yes to shoes
No to washing hands, that seems a bit OCD unless you're going to be handling a newborn.

Do you ask if you should take your shoes off?
Do you ask if there someplace you can wash your hands?