Searching for job interview questions for child care workers? Are you applying for a teacher job at a day care center, head start facility, or child development center? These questions might help you prepare for your big day.
Are you CPR / First Aid Certified?
If this question is not asked on your job application, more than likely you will be asked in your job interview. If you aren’t certified, however, don’t panic. Just say, “No, but I am definitely willing to be trained.” However, you can also contact your local Red Cross or community college to enroll in classes prior to job interviews.
This open ended question allows the employer to learn about your work history. Sometimes they might not even glance at your resume and will ask you upfront. A sample answer to the question might be “I worked in a church nursery for 3 years while in high school. I also babysat regularly in high school for children ages 8 months to ten years.” Always be truthful.
What type of child care situation do you think you can not handle?
This interview question will help a future boss learn more about your personality. A good answer might be “I feel that I can adapt in all situations. I think some might be more challenging than others, but I am confident that I could handle any situation. However, I would be uncomfortable in situations that go against child care licensing standards, such as teacher/child ratio.”
If you don’t, be honest. Respond with a statement such as, “No, but I more than willing to teach children with special needs such as autism, cognitive delays, etc.
What are some of your strengths?
This is a very common job interview question. One sample answer is “I am very patient and flexible. I do not get frustrated easily, and I can tolerate stress well. I have also been told that I relate well with others.”
Why do you want to leave your current job?
Future employers are usually curious as to why you want to quit your current position. Never say anything negative about your current employer. Some great responses are “While my current job is good, I think I would enjoy working with children. I want a job where I can help others.”, or “I love the child care center I currently work at, however, it is long commute. I would like to find a job closer to my home.” If higher pay is the reason for wanting a job switch, that is fine to tell them as well.
The child care director will want to know how you would handle difficult scenarios. One good response for this question is “I would calmly tell the parent that I can understand why they are frustrated. I would say that we are doing everything possible to prevent this from happening again, such as having daily lessons on being nice to our friends.”
Why do you want to work here?
Whether you apply to work at a child care center or a restaurant, you will most likely get asked this question. Never say something such as “I need the money”, or “I can’t find any other jobs.” Instead respond with something like, “I have heard great things about Cradles to Crayons Child Development Center, and I would love to be part of the team. I want to work with children, and this seems like a great place to be.”
These are just a handful of questions for job interviews at child care centers. Try to relax. Try not to be disappointed if it takes you awhile to find a job. Good Luck!
