HR Templates | Sample Interview Questions

Child Care Provider Interview Questions and Answers

Use this list of Child Care Provider interview questions and answers to gain better insight into your candidates, and make better hiring decisions.

Child Care Provider overview

When interviewing for a Child Care Provider job, it's important to ask questions that reveal the candidate's experience, creativity, patience, and ability to handle emergencies. Look for answers that show a genuine love for children, a playful spirit, and a responsible attitude.

Sample Interview Questions

  • What's your favorite game to play with kids?

    Purpose: To gauge creativity and ability to engage children.

    Sample answer

    I love playing 'Simon Says' because it’s fun and helps kids follow instructions while being active!

  • How do you handle a child who refuses to eat their veggies?

    Purpose: To assess problem-solving skills and patience.

    Sample answer

    I try to make it fun by creating a story about the veggies or making a game out of eating them.

  • Can you share a funny story from your past child care experiences?

    Purpose: To understand their sense of humor and past experiences.

    Sample answer

    Once, a little girl insisted her teddy bear needed a time-out for 'talking back'—it was adorable and hilarious!

  • What’s your go-to activity for a rainy day? ️

    Purpose: To see how they keep children entertained indoors.

    Sample answer

    I love setting up an indoor treasure hunt with clues and small prizes—it keeps them active and engaged.

  • How do you comfort a child who is upset?

    Purpose: To evaluate empathy and soothing techniques.

    Sample answer

    I get down to their level, speak softly, and offer a hug or their favorite toy to help them feel better.

  • What’s your favorite children’s book to read aloud?

    Purpose: To check their enthusiasm for reading and storytelling.

    Sample answer

    I love reading 'Where the Wild Things Are' because it’s imaginative and kids love the adventure.

  • How do you manage multiple children at once?

    Purpose: To understand their organizational and multitasking skills.

    Sample answer

    I set up structured activities and make sure to give each child individual attention throughout the day.

  • What’s your strategy for dealing with a tantrum in public?

    Purpose: To see how they handle stressful situations.

    Sample answer

    I stay calm, remove the child from the situation if possible, and talk to them quietly to understand their feelings.

  • How do you encourage good behavior in children?

    Purpose: To assess their approach to discipline and positive reinforcement.

    Sample answer

    I use a reward system with stickers and praise to encourage good behavior and set clear, consistent rules.

  • What’s your favorite craft project to do with kids?

    Purpose: To gauge creativity and ability to plan engaging activities.

    Sample answer

    I love making handprint art because it’s simple, fun, and creates a memorable keepsake for the kids.

🚨 Red Flags

Look out for these red flags when interviewing candidates for this role:

  • Lack of enthusiasm or interest in children.
  • Inability to provide specific examples from past experiences.
  • Negative or punitive approach to discipline.
  • Lack of creativity in engaging children.
  • Poor communication skills.