25 Nursery Teacher Interview Questions and Answers

Working with young children is a challenging and rewarding job. Nursery teachers are responsible for the care and education of children from birth to age five in a nursery school setting. They plan and implement activities that help children develop physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively.

If you’re looking for a nursery teaching job, you’ll likely need to go through a job interview. One way to prepare for this important meeting is to learn how to answer nursery teacher interview questions before talking with an interviewer.

Employers look for nursery teachers who are patient, creative, responsible, and able to work with children of all ages. You’ll also need to have knowledge of child development and early childhood education. A nursery interview is your chance to show that you’ve polished these skills to a shine. To help you get ready, we’ve listed nursery questions and answers that will help you figure out what you want to say during an interview.

1. Are you certified or licensed to be a nursery teacher?

Nursery teachers need to be certified or licensed in the state where they plan to teach. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the proper credentials for their school district. If you are not yet certified, explain what steps you will take to get your certification before the start of the next school year.

Example: “Yes, I am certified and licensed to be a nursery teacher. I have been teaching in the field of early childhood education for over 10 years now and hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from ABC University.

I also hold multiple certifications related to this field such as my Child Development Associate (CDA) certification, which is recognized nationally and demonstrates my knowledge and experience working with young children. In addition, I am also CPR/AED certified and have completed various trainings on topics such as child nutrition, health and safety, and classroom management.”

2. What are some of the most important qualities for a successful nursery teacher?

Nursery teachers need to be able to work well with children of all ages and backgrounds. They also need to have excellent communication skills, as they are often the first person parents speak to about their child’s progress. A nursery teacher should be patient, kind and compassionate.

Example: “I believe that the most important qualities for a successful nursery teacher are patience, creativity, and enthusiasm. Patience is essential when working with young children as they can be easily overwhelmed or frustrated. Having the ability to stay calm in difficult situations and remain patient while guiding them through their challenges is key.

Creativity is also an important quality for a nursery teacher. Children learn best when lessons are presented in fun and engaging ways. As a nursery teacher, I strive to come up with creative activities that will keep students engaged and excited about learning.

Lastly, having enthusiasm for teaching is essential. Young children feed off of the energy of their teachers, so it’s important to show excitement and passion for what you’re teaching. I have always been passionate about teaching and am eager to bring my enthusiasm into any classroom.”

3. How would you handle a situation where a child is acting out or being disruptive?

Nursery teachers often have to handle disruptive students. Interviewers want to know how you would respond to such a situation and if you have any strategies for diffusing the situation or getting the student back on task.

Example: “I understand the importance of creating a safe and positive learning environment for all children. When it comes to handling disruptive behavior, I believe in using positive reinforcement whenever possible. My approach is to first attempt to identify the root cause of the child’s behavior and address that issue in an appropriate manner. For example, if a child is acting out due to feeling overwhelmed or frustrated, I would provide them with additional support and guidance to help them better manage their emotions.

If the disruptive behavior persists, I will use redirection techniques such as offering alternative activities or providing gentle reminders about classroom expectations. I also strive to be consistent in my responses so that all students are aware of what behaviors are acceptable and which ones are not. Finally, I always make sure to take time to talk to the student afterwards to ensure they understand why their behavior was inappropriate and how they can improve in the future.”

4. What is your strategy for working with children who have special needs?

Nursery teachers often work with children who have special needs. This question helps the interviewer determine how you will handle this situation and whether you are prepared to meet the unique challenges that come with it. Use your answer to highlight your experience working with special-needs children, as well as your ability to create a safe and inclusive environment for all students.

Example: “My strategy for working with children who have special needs is to create an inclusive and supportive environment. I believe that all children should be given the same opportunities, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. To achieve this, I strive to provide individualized instruction tailored to each child’s unique learning style. I also make sure to collaborate closely with parents and other professionals involved in the child’s care to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Finally, I always remain patient and understanding when it comes to any challenges that may arise. I am confident that my approach will help foster a positive learning experience for all students, including those with special needs.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to use creative problem-solving skills to resolve an issue with a child.

Nursery teachers often have to use their creativity and problem-solving skills to help children learn. Employers ask this question to see if you can apply your unique talents to the job. Use examples from your previous experience that highlight your ability to think outside of the box.

Example: “I had a situation recently where one of my students was having difficulty following directions. I noticed that he was getting easily frustrated and wasn’t able to focus on the task at hand. After observing him for a few days, I realized that he needed more structure in order to be successful.

So, I decided to implement a reward system for completing tasks. Each time he completed a task, he would receive a sticker or other small reward. This gave him an incentive to stay focused and complete his work. It also helped him develop self-discipline as he learned how to control his emotions and behavior.

This creative problem-solving approach worked really well with this student. He was soon able to follow instructions without becoming overwhelmed and was able to complete tasks independently. As a result, he was much happier and more engaged in the classroom activities.”

6. If a child was having difficulty learning how to walk, what would be your strategy for encouraging them and helping them feel successful?

Nursery teachers often work with children who are learning to walk, and employers ask this question to make sure you have strategies for helping these students succeed. Use your answer to show the interviewer that you know how to help a child learn to walk and feel successful while doing so.

Example: “When a child is having difficulty learning how to walk, I believe it’s important to create an environment that encourages them and helps them feel successful. First, I would assess the child’s level of comfort with walking and identify any potential physical or developmental challenges they may be facing. Then, I would work with the child to develop a plan for overcoming those challenges, such as providing extra support or introducing activities that can help build their confidence in walking.

I also think it’s important to provide positive reinforcement when the child takes steps towards success. This could include verbal praise, rewards, or even just giving them a high five. Finally, I would ensure that the child has plenty of opportunities to practice walking in a safe and supportive environment. By taking these steps, I am confident that I can help children learn how to walk and make progress towards their goals.”

7. What would you do if you noticed that a child was starting to show signs of malnutrition?

Nursery teachers often work with children who are at risk of malnutrition. This question helps the interviewer assess your ability to handle challenging situations and make decisions that benefit students. In your answer, describe a situation in which you helped a child overcome malnutrition.

Example: “If I noticed that a child was starting to show signs of malnutrition, the first thing I would do is assess the situation. I would talk to the parents and find out if there are any underlying medical issues or lifestyle factors that could be causing the issue. I would also observe the child’s eating habits in order to determine what changes need to be made.

Once I have identified the cause of the problem, I would work with the parents to create an action plan for addressing it. This might include providing nutritional education to the family, helping them access resources such as food banks or nutrition programs, and monitoring the child’s progress over time. I would also ensure that the child has access to healthy meals and snacks throughout the day at the nursery. Finally, I would keep open communication with the parents so that we can continue to monitor the child’s health and wellbeing.”

8. How well do you handle stress and pressure in the workplace?

Nursery teachers often work with young children, which can be a stressful environment. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the ability to handle stress and pressure in the workplace. In your answer, explain how you manage stress and give an example of a time when you did so successfully.

Example: “I understand that stress and pressure are a part of any job, especially in the field of early childhood education. I have developed strong strategies for managing stress and pressure in the workplace.

When faced with stressful situations, I take a step back and assess the situation objectively. This helps me to identify the best course of action to resolve the issue. I also practice self-care and make sure to take regular breaks throughout my day to ensure I remain focused and productive.

Additionally, I prioritize tasks and delegate responsibilities when necessary. This allows me to stay organized and manage my workload effectively. Finally, I am always open to feedback from colleagues and supervisors as it helps me to continuously improve my performance.”

9. Do you have any questions for us about the position or company?

Interviewers often ask this question to see if you have done any research on the company and whether you have any questions about the job. This is your chance to show that you are interested in the position, so be sure to come prepared with a few questions.

Example: “Yes, I do have a few questions. First, what is the typical daily schedule for a Nursery Teacher? Second, what type of resources and support does the company provide to its teachers? Finally, how would you describe the school’s overall approach to teaching young children?

I’m very excited about this opportunity and believe that my experience as an expert Nursery Teacher makes me the ideal candidate for the job. I am passionate about providing quality education to young children and understand the importance of creating a safe and nurturing environment in which they can learn and grow. I look forward to hearing more about the position and the company so that I can make sure it is the right fit for me.”

10. When is the best time to discipline a child?

Nursery teachers often need to discipline students. When answering this question, it can be helpful to explain the steps you take when disciplining a student and how you make sure they understand why they’re being disciplined.

Example: “Disciplining a child is an important part of being a nursery teacher and it’s essential to do it at the right time. I believe that the best time to discipline a child is when they are in the moment of misbehaving, as this will help them understand why their behavior was wrong and what the consequences are for not following the rules. It’s also important to be consistent with discipline so that children know what to expect if they don’t follow the rules. Finally, it’s important to make sure that any disciplinary action taken is appropriate for the age of the child, as younger children may need more guidance than older ones.”

11. We want all of our employees to feel comfortable sharing their ideas and suggestions. How would you go about implementing a child’s idea in your classroom?

Nursery teachers are often the first educators children interact with. This question helps interviewers understand how you would encourage your students to share their ideas and thoughts, even if they’re different from what you have planned for the day. Your answer should show that you value all opinions and want to hear them out.

Example: “I believe that it is essential to foster an environment in the classroom where all children feel comfortable expressing their ideas and opinions. To do this, I would start by creating a safe space for them to share their thoughts without fear of judgement or criticism. I would also encourage open dialogue with the students and make sure they know that their ideas are valued and respected.

Once an idea has been shared, I would take the time to discuss it with the student and explore how we could implement it. This could involve brainstorming ways to bring the idea to life and discussing any potential challenges. It’s important to me that the child feels involved in the process and is given the opportunity to be creative.

If the idea is feasible, I would then work with the other teachers and staff to put the plan into action. This could involve gathering materials, setting up activities, and ensuring that the necessary resources are available. Finally, I would provide feedback to the student about how their idea was implemented and celebrate their contribution to the classroom.”

12. Describe your process for creating a daily schedule for your students.

A nursery teacher’s schedule is a vital part of their job. The interviewer wants to know how you plan your day and ensure that students are engaged in learning activities throughout the entire school day.

Example: “My process for creating a daily schedule for my students begins with understanding their individual needs. I take into account the age, development level, and interests of each student to create an engaging and meaningful experience.

I then plan activities that will help them reach their learning goals while also having fun. This includes activities such as circle time, outdoor play, art projects, music, story time, and more. I also make sure to incorporate plenty of breaks throughout the day so they can stay focused and energized.

Once I have planned out the activities, I map out a timeline for the day. I consider how long each activity should last and when it’s best to transition between activities. Finally, I review the schedule with my students to ensure they understand what is expected of them.”

13. What makes you an ideal candidate for a nursery teacher position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications for the role. They want someone who is passionate about working with children and has a lot of experience in the field. When you answer, make sure to highlight any unique skills or experiences that make you an ideal candidate.

Example: “I believe I am an ideal candidate for a nursery teacher position because of my extensive experience and qualifications. I have been teaching in nurseries for the past five years, during which time I have developed a strong understanding of early childhood education principles. My passion for working with young children is evident in my enthusiasm to create engaging activities that promote learning and development.

Furthermore, I am highly organized and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. I have excellent communication skills and enjoy collaborating with parents and other staff members to ensure the best possible outcomes for our students. Finally, I am committed to continuing my professional development by attending workshops and seminars related to early childhood education.”

14. Which age group do you enjoy working with the most and why?

Nursery teachers often work with children of different ages. The interviewer wants to know which age group you enjoy working with the most and why. This helps them understand if your teaching style is a good fit for their school’s curriculum.

Example: “I have worked with children of all ages in my career as a Nursery Teacher and I enjoy working with each age group for different reasons. My favorite age group to work with is 3-5 year olds because they are so eager to learn and explore the world around them. They are also very creative and imaginative, which makes teaching them fun and engaging. I love seeing their faces light up when they discover something new or make a connection between two ideas. Working with this age group allows me to help shape young minds and foster a lifelong love of learning.

I am confident that my experience working with this age group will be an asset to your nursery school. I understand the importance of providing a safe and stimulating environment where children can grow and develop at their own pace. With my knowledge of child development and educational best practices, I am well equipped to provide quality instruction and guidance to the students in your program.”

15. What do you think is the most important skill for a successful teacher to possess?

Nursery teachers need to possess a variety of skills, but the interviewer may be asking this question to learn more about your teaching philosophy. Use this opportunity to share what you think is most important for a teacher and why it’s so crucial.

Example: “I believe the most important skill for a successful teacher to possess is the ability to create an environment that encourages learning. This means creating a safe and supportive atmosphere where children feel comfortable taking risks, exploring new ideas, and asking questions. It also involves being able to foster positive relationships with students by showing them respect and understanding their individual needs. Finally, it’s essential to be able to effectively communicate expectations and provide clear instructions so that students can understand what is expected of them.

These skills are especially important in a nursery setting, as young children need extra support and guidance when it comes to learning. As a Nursery Teacher, I have extensive experience in creating such an environment. I am well-versed in providing age-appropriate activities that engage and motivate my students while encouraging them to explore and learn. I also strive to build strong relationships with each student, which helps me better understand their individual needs and how best to meet them. My communication style is clear and effective, ensuring that all students understand the expectations placed upon them.”

16. How often do you update your lesson plans and activities to keep them fresh and engaging?

Nursery teachers need to be creative and innovative in their teaching methods. Interviewers want to know that you’re able to keep your lessons fresh and exciting for the children. Your answer should show that you have a passion for learning and discovery, as well as an ability to adapt to new situations.

Example: “I understand the importance of keeping lesson plans and activities fresh and engaging for students. To ensure this, I update my lesson plans and activities on a regular basis. At least once every two weeks, I review my current lesson plans and activities to see if they need any changes or updates. If so, I make those changes right away. I also look at new resources that are available and incorporate them into my lessons when appropriate. Finally, I regularly consult with colleagues to get their input on how to keep my lessons interesting and relevant. By doing all these things, I am able to provide my students with an enjoyable learning experience.”

17. There is a bug in one of the cribs. What is your strategy for handling this situation?

Bugs in the nursery are a common occurrence, and employers want to know that you can handle this situation effectively. In your answer, explain how you would identify which crib has the bug, what steps you would take to remove it and how you would prevent future bugs from entering the classroom.

Example: “When I encounter a bug in one of the cribs, my first priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of all children in the nursery. My strategy for handling this situation would be to immediately remove the child from the crib and inspect the area for any other bugs or signs of infestation. Once I have identified the source of the problem, I will take steps to eliminate it by using appropriate pest control methods.

I also believe that communication is key when dealing with such issues. I would inform the parents about the issue and explain the steps being taken to resolve it. Furthermore, I would provide them with resources and advice on how to prevent future occurrences. Finally, I would keep records of the incident and follow up with the parents periodically to make sure the problem has been resolved.”

18. What strategies do you use to foster a positive and safe learning environment?

Nursery teachers are responsible for creating a safe and nurturing environment where students can learn. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills necessary to create such an environment. In your answer, explain two or three strategies you use to ensure that all students feel welcome and comfortable in class.

Example: “I believe that creating a positive and safe learning environment is essential for successful teaching. To ensure this, I use a variety of strategies in my classroom.

Firstly, I strive to create an atmosphere of respect and trust between myself and the students. This includes setting clear expectations and boundaries while also showing understanding and empathy towards their individual needs. I also make sure to provide consistent feedback on their progress and encourage them to take ownership of their own learning.

In addition, I incorporate activities into my lessons which promote collaboration and teamwork. This helps build relationships between the students and encourages them to support each other in their learning. Finally, I always prioritize safety by ensuring all equipment is used correctly and making sure any risks are minimized.”

19. Describe your experience with classroom management and curriculum development?

Nursery teachers must be able to manage their classrooms effectively and develop engaging curriculum. Interviewers ask this question to learn more about your experience with these two important skills. In your answer, describe a time when you had to manage a classroom or develop curriculum for a group of children. Explain how you did it and what the results were.

Example: “I have extensive experience in classroom management and curriculum development. I have been a Nursery Teacher for the past five years, during which time I have developed my own unique approach to managing classrooms. My method focuses on creating an environment of respect and trust between students and teachers. This helps create an atmosphere where learning can thrive.

In terms of curriculum development, I am passionate about creating engaging lessons that are tailored to meet the needs of each individual student. I believe that it is important to provide a variety of activities and resources so that all students can access the material. I also strive to ensure that the content is relevant and up-to-date with current trends and topics. Finally, I always make sure to incorporate fun and interactive elements into my lesson plans to keep students engaged and motivated.”

20. How would you handle a situation where a child is having difficulty understanding a concept or lesson?

Nursery teachers often have to adapt their teaching methods to suit the needs of each child. This question helps an interviewer assess your ability to modify your approach and develop individualized lesson plans for students who need extra support. In your answer, describe a specific situation where you helped a student overcome challenges with learning or behavior.

Example: “When a child is having difficulty understanding a concept or lesson, I believe it is important to take the time to assess their individual needs. First, I would ask the student questions to better understand why they are struggling and what specific areas of the concept or lesson they are having trouble with. This allows me to tailor my instruction to meet their individual needs.

Next, I would break down the concept into smaller parts that are easier for the student to understand. For example, if the student is having difficulty understanding fractions, I might start by teaching them how to identify fractions on a number line. Once they have mastered this skill, I can move onto more complex topics such as adding and subtracting fractions.

I also like to use visuals and hands-on activities to help students learn concepts. By using these techniques, I am able to engage the student in an interactive way and make learning fun. Finally, I always encourage positive reinforcement when a student has made progress. This helps to build confidence and motivate them to keep trying.”

21. Tell us about an experience in which you had to work with parents to resolve a problem?

Parents can sometimes have concerns about their child’s progress in the classroom. Employers ask this question to make sure you know how to handle these situations and keep them from becoming conflicts. In your answer, explain what steps you take to resolve conflict with parents.

Example: “I had a great experience working with parents to resolve an issue in my previous job as a Nursery Teacher. One of the children was having difficulty adjusting to the classroom environment and wasn’t engaging with other students or participating in activities. I worked closely with the child’s parents, discussing their concerns and developing strategies to help the child become more comfortable in the classroom. We discussed different approaches such as introducing new activities that the child might find interesting, providing extra support during class time, and allowing for additional breaks throughout the day.

The parents were very open to the suggestions I gave them and we worked together to come up with a plan that would best suit the child’s needs. After implementing our plan, I saw a huge improvement in the child’s behavior and engagement in the classroom. It was incredibly rewarding to see how much progress the child made after just a few weeks. This experience showed me the importance of collaboration between teachers and parents when it comes to helping children succeed.”

22. How do you ensure that children have the necessary materials for each activity?

Nursery teachers often need to provide students with the materials they need for each activity. This question helps interviewers assess your organizational skills and ability to plan ahead. In your answer, describe how you ensure that all of your students have what they need for an activity or class.

Example: “I believe that providing children with the necessary materials for each activity is essential to their learning and development. To ensure this, I always plan ahead and create a detailed list of all the materials needed for each activity. This helps me stay organized and prepared for any unexpected changes or needs. I also make sure to have extra supplies on hand in case something gets damaged or lost. Finally, I regularly check-in with my students to make sure they are comfortable and have everything they need to be successful. By doing these things, I can guarantee that every child has access to the resources they need to learn and grow.”

23. What techniques do you use to encourage collaboration between students?

Nursery teachers often work with students of varying ages and abilities. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working in a classroom setting where collaboration is necessary. In your answer, share two or three techniques that you use to help students collaborate and work together.

Example: “I believe that collaboration between students is a key part of the learning process. To encourage this, I use a variety of techniques in my classroom. First and foremost, I create an environment where students feel comfortable to work together and share ideas. This includes providing ample opportunities for group activities and projects. I also foster positive relationships between students by encouraging them to help each other out when needed. Finally, I make sure to provide plenty of praise and recognition when students collaborate successfully. By doing so, I hope to create a culture of cooperation within my classroom.”

24. In what ways do you incorporate technology into your lessons?

Technology is an important part of a child’s education, and the interviewer wants to know how you use it in your teaching. Use examples from your previous experience that show you understand the importance of technology in learning and development.

Example: “I believe that technology can be a powerful tool for learning in the classroom. I strive to use it in meaningful ways that support and enhance my students’ learning experiences. For example, I often use interactive whiteboards or tablets to engage my students with educational videos and activities. This helps them stay focused and engaged while also teaching them important concepts. I also like to incorporate online resources such as websites, apps, and games into my lessons. These tools help me provide my students with an immersive learning experience that allows them to explore different topics in depth. Finally, I make sure to teach my students how to safely navigate the internet and use digital devices responsibly.”

25. Describe a time when you implemented a new strategy and it was successful.

Nursery teachers often try new strategies to help students learn. This question helps employers understand how you implement and adapt to change. Use your answer to explain a time when you tried something new, the results of that action and what you learned from it.

Example: “I recently implemented a new strategy in my classroom to help children learn the alphabet. I started by introducing each letter of the alphabet one at a time and then having the students practice writing it on their own. After they had mastered that, we moved onto learning how to sound out words with those letters. To make this more fun, I incorporated games and activities into our lessons. The students were engaged and excited to learn.

At the end of the lesson, I was able to see the progress the students had made. They could now recognize all the letters of the alphabet and were beginning to be able to sound out simple words. This was an incredibly rewarding experience for me as a teacher, knowing that my strategy had been successful. It showed me that taking the time to come up with creative ways to teach can really pay off.”