b"EXPERT TIPSHELPING CHILDREN IN FAMILIES AFFECTED BY ADDICTIONBy Sue BrightCloseto30millionchildrenareborntoalcoholicparents(accordingtotheNationalAssociation for Children of Alcoholics (NACoA)). The coronavirus pandemic has coincidedwith the ongoing addiction epidemic, causing an explosion in alcohol and drug use.It's no wonder given that financial stressors, changes at home and work, worries about agingfamily members, and isolation are known to cause behavioral health issues. Many parentsalso have the increased burden of homeschooling children while working from home. Nannies play such an important role in the growth and development of our nation's children.As parents return to work, childcare providers may start to suspect a child is being impactedby a parents substance use disorder that developed or re-occurred during the pandemic.Children of addicted adults are often discouraged from talking with other grownups aboutthe problems theyre experiencing. So, what can nannies do to support the children theywork with?Be aware of common warning signs for children in a family struggling with addiction. A family environment where addiction is present tends to have a lack of rules and structure.Developmentally,childrenoftenstarttofeelliketheyareresponsiblefortheirparentsSUE BRIGHT addiction and may express guilt or shame for things they have no control over, such as thefamilys finances. Sue Bright is the Executive Director ofNewDirectionsforWomen,an Older children may present as rigid, fearful, emotionally shut-down, or detached from theiraddiction treatment center for women loved ones. They may be withdrawn and shy, or they may be the oppositeexplosive andof all ages in Southern California. With violent. You might notice budding perfectionism, hoarding, or wanting to isolate alone inmore than 30 years of experience in their room. Young children may exhibit symptoms such as bed-wetting, separation anxiety,thebehavioralhealthcarefield,she constant nightmares, or becoming very upset without a specific reason. specializesinintake,qualityimprovement,andworking Create a structured consistent schedule for the child during your time together. collaborativelywithHRprofessionals,EAPs,andunions.Pleasevisit Because the addicted family system is so chaotic and unpredictable, it can make a hugewww.newdirectionsforwomen.orgfor difference when caretakers instill a sense of structure. Routine is important in a childs lifemore information. because it helps them develop security and trust which can help prepare them for lifeahead.6WINTER 2020|NannyMag.com"