Divorce is a reality that many families face these days.
As a nanny, you’ll almost certainly come across families and children who are dealing with the problems and stress that come with divorce and their particular circumstances. For example, you might work for a family that is going through a divorce or has been a single-parent family for a long time. Both families have been damaged by divorce, but each will face its unique set of difficulties.
Families that are different. Various divorce scenarios
You might locate a family where the parents get along, and you’ll be able to work with both parents even if they’ve been separated for a long time. The parents want the best for their children, which means employing a single individual to look after them.
You might, however, come across another household in which the parents don’t get along and are in the midst of a bitter divorce. You were recruited before they decided to divorce, and they may both want to continue to utilize your services, but this could put you in an awkward position, right in the middle of their acrimonious divorce.
What are your responsibilities as a nanny? What resources are available to divorced parents and their children?
Despite the potentially unstable and emotional circumstances, it’s critical that you remember your first and most crucial responsibility: to be a continual source of support and comfort in the lives of the children. You’ll also need to maintain objectivity and professionalism in your dealings with the parents as a Nanny (your employers).
Here are three helpful hints to assist you navigate this difficult situation while maintaining as much consistency and stability as possible for the children in your care:
1) Create a clear Employment Agreement – If your divorce happened before you started working, but you understand there are issues that need to be addressed, make sure the issues are addressed in the Employment Agreement. If, on the other hand, the divorce occurs while you are still working for the family, you should explore which parent is the actual employer and how their expectations of you will change. You must know if it is acceptable to contact the other parent in an emergency and if there is a problem with doing so. If you’re uncomfortable discussing these issues with the parents, your nanny agency can assist you.
2) Have a steady schedule for the kids – You may be the only constant in their lives right now, so it’s up to you to keep a consistent schedule for them and continue to set clear expectations. Even if the divorce has been finalized for some time, you may find that the children test limits and behave out while they’re going through this period of turbulence and bewilderment.
Nonetheless, kids require the clear expectations and boundaries that you have established for them. They require as much constancy as possible, and by standing firm and remaining unwavering, you will be doing them a huge favor. Maintain as much stability, normalcy, and security as possible during your time with them.
3) Compassion – You may assist the youngsters by listening to them without passing judgment or taking sides. With youngsters, a little sympathy may go a long way; you can create a secure environment for them to talk about their feelings, which they may not have anywhere else at this time. Let them know that they are welcome to come to you at any time to talk about their feelings, and that you will not criticize them or tell anybody else how they are feeling.
Divorce poses many difficult situations and elicits a wide range of emotions in both parents and children. You may make a difference as a nanny by remaining neutral and supporting the children with compassion, love, and understanding.
Of course, if you find yourself in one of these circumstances and require assistance, we are here to assist you and stand by your side.
