As a parent, you want the best for your child, and finding the right preschool or daycare is a crucial step in their development. One way to ensure you’re making the right choice is by conducting a toddler interview. While it may sound unusual, interviewing a toddler can provide valuable insight into their personality, needs, and interests. In this article, we’ll discuss the top 17 toddler interview questions, how to prepare for the interview, and provide tips on how to ace it.
Preparing for the Toddler Interview
Before diving into the interview questions, it’s essential to prepare yourself and your child for the process. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
- Establish a relaxed environment: Find a quiet and comfortable space where your child feels at ease. This will help them open up during the interview.
- Review the interview questions: Familiarize yourself with the questions you plan to ask. This will ensure a smooth flow during the interview.
- Practice active listening: Pay close attention to your child’s responses and body language. This will help you understand their needs and preferences better.
- Be patient: Toddlers may take time to answer questions or express themselves. Give them space and time to respond.
17 Common Interview Questions for Toddlers
1. What is your favorite toy or activity?
This question helps you understand your child’s interests and what brings them joy. It can also provide insight into their motor skills and cognitive development.
2. Who are your friends at daycare/preschool?
By asking this question, you can gauge your child’s social skills and how well they interact with others. It also gives you an idea of their social circle and if they have formed any close bonds.
3. What do you like to do when you’re upset?
Understanding how your child copes with negative emotions is crucial. This question helps you gauge their emotional intelligence and if they have healthy ways of dealing with frustration or sadness.
4. Can you tell me a story about your favorite book?
This question assesses your child’s language development and comprehension skills. It also gives you an idea of their imagination and creativity.
5. What is your favorite food or snack?
Knowing your child’s food preferences is important for their overall well-being. This question helps you understand their dietary preferences and if they have any allergies or restrictions.
6. How do you feel about sharing your toys with others?
Sharing is an essential skill for toddlers to learn. By asking this question, you can assess your child’s willingness to share and their understanding of cooperation and empathy.
7. What is your favorite part of daycare/preschool?
This question helps you understand what aspects of their daycare or preschool environment your child enjoys the most. It can provide insights into their learning preferences and if they feel safe and comfortable in their surroundings.
8. Do you enjoy outdoor activities or indoor activities more?
Understanding your child’s preference for indoor or outdoor activities can help you choose the right daycare or preschool that aligns with their interests. It can also provide insights into their physical development and need for movement.
9. What is something new you learned recently?
This question assesses your child’s curiosity and their ability to absorb new information. It also gives you an idea of their learning style and if they enjoy exploring new topics.
10. How do you feel about naptime?
Naptime is an essential part of a toddler’s routine. By asking this question, you can gauge your child’s attitude towards rest and relaxation. It also helps you understand if they have any sleep-related concerns or difficulties.
11. Can you show me your favorite artwork or craft?
This question helps you understand your child’s artistic abilities and interests. It can also provide insights into their fine motor skills and creativity.
12. What do you like to do when you’re happy?
Understanding how your child expresses happiness is important. This question helps you gauge their emotional well-being and if they engage in positive activities when they are in a good mood.
13. How do you make new friends?
Social skills are crucial for a child’s development. By asking this question, you can assess your child’s ability to form new connections and their approach to making friends.
14. Can you count or say the alphabet?
This question helps you assess your child’s early literacy and numeracy skills. It gives you an idea of their cognitive development and readiness for academic learning.
15. Do you have any pets at home?
Pets can have a significant impact on a child’s life. By asking this question, you can understand if your child has any experiences with animals and if they have an interest in caring for them.
16. What is your favorite thing to do with your family?
This question provides insights into your child’s family dynamics and the activities they enjoy doing with their loved ones. It also helps you understand their values and the importance of bonding.
17. How do you feel about going to daycare/preschool?
This question allows your child to express their emotions about attending daycare or preschool. It helps you understand if they have any concerns or anxieties and if they are excited about the upcoming experience.
Tips for a Successful Toddler Interview
Here are some additional tips to help you make the most of the toddler interview:
- Keep the questions open-ended: Encourage your child to express themselves freely by asking questions that require more than a simple “yes” or “no” answer.
- Use visual aids: To engage your child further, consider using pictures or props related to the questions. This can make the interview more interactive and enjoyable for them.
- Remain calm and patient: Toddlers can be unpredictable, and they may not always answer the questions as expected. Stay calm and patient throughout the interview process.
- Observe non-verbal cues: Pay attention to your child’s body language, facial expressions, and gestures. These non-verbal cues can provide valuable insights into their emotions and thoughts.
- Make it a fun experience: Turn the interview into a game or a storytelling session. This will help your child feel more comfortable and engaged.
- Follow up with the interviewer: After the interview, take the time to discuss your child’s responses and any concerns or observations you may have with the interviewer. This will ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of your child’s needs.
Conclusion
Conducting a toddler interview can be a valuable tool in choosing the right preschool or daycare for your child. By asking the right questions, understanding their preferences, and observing their reactions, you can make an informed decision. Remember to keep the interview relaxed, fun, and engaging to get the most accurate insights into your child’s personality and needs.
