Once you have applicants, the next step is figuring out who is truly the right fit. Not sure where to find applicants, read this blog first!

When hiring, it’s important to look beyond the résumé. Education and experience are key, but character, attitude, and classroom presence often matter even more. Create a detailed yet welcoming interview process that helps you truly get to know each candidate. Looking for some child care specific interview questions, keep reading and grab the freebie!

Why In-Person Interviews Matter

Zoom interviews are great for quick screenings, but they can’t replace learning about someone’s energy and interaction style in real time.

During an in-person interview, you can observe:

How they communicate
How they connect
How they show warmth
Their professionalism and presence

Encourage candidates to complete as much of the application as possible at home so you can spend your time together focusing on meaningful topics rather than paperwork.

Have their resume and any supporting documents ready to review along with your interview questions ready (hello freebie!)

Ask Questions That Reveal Mindset and Values

Scenario-based questions help you understand how a candidate handles real classroom situations.

Examples:

“How would you approach a child struggling with separation at drop-off?”
“Can you share a time you navigated a disagreement with a co-teacher?”
“How do you build relationships with families?”

Pay attention to more than the content, look for empathy, reflection, and genuine care.

Include a Short Classroom Trial

A 15–20 minute classroom trial gives you and your team a chance to observe how a candidate interacts with children and coworkers.

Your staff’s feedback is invaluable as they may notice things you don’t. And candidates get to experience your culture firsthand.

For lead teachers, ask for a quick sample lesson plan or activity idea. This helps you see:

Their understanding of child development
Creativity
Classroom organization
Ability to plan developmentally appropriate activities

It’s a small step that reveals a lot.

Verify Licensing Requirements Early

Before making an offer, double-check state qualifications. There’s nothing more frustrating than hiring someone for a lead role only to later find out they don’t meet the required credentials. I (Sam), have been there, and it’s not fun!

Share Your Program’s Vision Clearly

Help candidates see what makes your center special.

Share:

Your mission
Your approach to teaching
How your team collaborates
Opportunities for growth

When candidates connect with your “why,” they’re more likely to become invested, long-term team members.

Freebie

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Freebie 📝

The interview questions you ask matter. That’s why we created two free templates, one for lead teachers and one for assistant teachers, designed specifically for child care centers.