The Crib: A Blog for New Parents

Posted by kateriscribe on 03/15/08 - 06:07 PM

New parents sometimes are unsure how to interview care providers. Some parents are even afraid to offend the person with questions that might be to intimate. As a provider myself, let me assure you that most of us would wonder about the parent if the right questions were not asked. On the other hand, it is understandable that important topics are often over looked once the conversation gets going. Parents should never be afraid to ask new or even the same questions again after the care provider is hired. The following list will give you a thorough starting point of questions to ask the people you are considering for the care of your children.

Basic Information Questions

· Why do you enjoy babysitting?

· Do you have children of your own?

· What is your hourly per child rate?

· Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a crime? What type?

· How many years have you been working with children?

· How many families have you cared for and how old were the children?

· Can we contact your former employers?

· Do you know First Aid?

· Do you know CPR?

· Have you had any childcare education?

· Are you comfortable caring for newborns?

· Have you had experience caring for newborns?

· Can you tell if a room is childproofed?

· Do you prefer to work in the child’s home or your own?

· Are you comfortable with preparing meals?

· Would you be willing to provide transportation to outings or appointments if needed?

· Is your driving record clean and safe?

· What are your child raising beliefs? (Discipline, behavior, learning, etc.)

· Describe how you believe a typical day with the child would be. How you would spend the time with the child.

These questions are only a basic example. Every family has unique considerations and needs, so it is up to you to ask the questions whose answers are most important to your family. Whatever information you want to know, do not be afraid to ask for it. This is YOUR child that this STRANGER is going to be caring for. If this person is not comfortable with your questions, you probably won’t be comfortable with their care.