The Unique Challenges of NCS Hours
NCS life is a wonderful life! The smell of new babies, the sweet smiles and the joys of helping clients become confident parents. But there can also be the pitfalls. There are things that no one tells you when you make the jump to full-time Newborn Care Specialist work like the unique difficulties that come with working overnight or even an extended 24-hour schedule. For most of us, being an overnight or 24-hour Newborn Care Specialist takes some getting used to, for several reasons. While both schedules have some similarities, they also have their own distinctive challenges. There are the obvious things like lack of consistent sleep, or finding work/life balance, but there are a host of other challenges too, but with specific planning and remembering the truly important things, it can be an amazing career. Let’s take a look at a few of those challenges and how to handle them.
For example, driving home in the morning after a challenging shift can be especially dangerous if you haven’t had enough restful sleep. You must know your limitations and be disciplined in getting your rest every chance you get. Because I am a daytime nanny as well as an overnight NCS work, I only accept overnight assignments 15-20 minute from my home so that I do not get overly tired driving home. The dangers of driving are especially increased if you have a particularly long commute, so you must be sure you get sufficient rest while on the job and take quality naps during the day before going to work. Your life may depend on it.
Carving out time for self-care is one of the most difficult things for a caregiver to do, especially if you are on a 24/7 assignment and in someone else’s home. While vacations and massages are nice, that might not be practical so try to think outside of the box. One thing I have learned about self-care is that it doesn’t have to break the bank. Think about what makes you genuinely happy? For some, it’s tending to plants, being in nature or lighting a special candle. For others, it’s prayer/daily meditation, listening to music or having something with them that reminds them of home while they are away for extended periods of time. Whatever it is, find time to appreciate it regularly so that it energizes your soul.
Make sure you take the time necessary to lead a healthy lifestyle when you work unusual hours as well. This includes exercising, eating right and making time for regular doctor’s visits. Being on top of your own health is the ultimate form of self-care. If you aren’t taking care of YOU, how can you care for others?
Sometimes the drive to establish yourself, build your reputation in your market or financial goals will motivate you to work without a break, but the concept of being “ON” for extended periods of time can really take its toll on an NCS. Job burnout is real! Working for hours on end or working back to back contracts is an invitation for it, so be sure to take time off or change up your schedule, like going from nights to days, to help keep you motivated and always bringing your “A” game.
Loved ones and friends are an important part of a healthy life. Maintaining relationships can be challenging when you’re working either overnights or 24s. If you’re married or have children of your own, having enough energy to interact with them can be tricky. Also, working 24s can be isolating because you may not see your family/SO for long periods of time, so be sure that you are intentional with your time management to take care of those important relationships.
Remember, while you’re out there taking care of newborns and empowering parents, it’s equally important to put yourself first and make an intentional plan to ensure you get the breaks and rest you need so that you can keep providing the best care possible for your clients.
Chevelle Frederick is the owner of The Baby Help Newborn Care Services, LLC. She is a part-time Nanny and Newborn Care Specialist in Dallas, TX. Chevelle’s goal is to help families feel more comfortable, confident, and capable in caring for their precious newborn. She enjoys doing this by educating new parents on basic care, teaching them coping skills, demonstrating techniques, instilling the importance of schedules and routines, and by simply offering support during a new and exciting time! www.thebabyhelp.com