Now leaving Council after over 35 years, she reflects on how many things have changed, the incredible combination of joy and bewilderment surrounding being a new parent remains the same.
Thirty five years ago, when Anna started working as a nurse at Council, she was part of a team of eight who were employed by council to provide new parents with information and support – now that team has doubled in size.
‘Across the years top issues have been sleep, feeding and navigating parenthood,’ she said.
‘There’s no doubt that the explosion of parenting books and Google has changed the expectations and practices of many parents.
‘But sleep is still the big deal – or should I say lack of it – it’s something that Council now does differently with sleep and settling sessions delivered by a designated practitioner.’
‘Parents are generally grateful for any advice and welcome reassurance that what they’re doing is ok.’
Advice, experience and evidence
Like many other professions, nurses are working with people who are more educated and have access to more information sources than ever before.
‘For example, there are more vaccinations available and there more people who question the benefits. But that’s fine, being a nurse you can have an informed discussion.’
Another change that Anna witnessed is the increased diversity of family structures.
‘Our practice is now more father inclusive, We have quite a few same sex couples and mothers choosing to have babies on their own.’
‘We are also more aware and alert to mental health issues and family violence concerns.’
‘As a team, we’ve learned to ask questions that enable people to seek advice if they need it.
Linking parents together isn’t in the job description, but Anna is chuffed that she connected parents who went on to become friends.
‘I liked to connect families that had similar backgrounds or demographics apart from the usual parents groups. It’s created friendships that have lasted years. ‘
And the first thirty-five years went just like that
‘When I started working Bob Hawke was Prime Minister and Horses by Daryl Braithwaite was first on the radio.’
‘Luckily I’ve worked with an amazing team of dedicated, knowledgeable nurses which made it easy to stay.’
‘And the hundreds of parents and children, and the changing demands of parenthood have kept be learning – which I love.’
Anna’s next adventure involves many things, including gardening.
