Some people assume travel nursing is just for unencumbered singles, but the fact is that many travelers bring their children along. Here are a few things to consider when determining whether travel nursing is right for your family.
Education Matters
Depending on the age of your child, travel nursing offers different challenges and opportunities. If you are traveling with school-age children, you have several options. Many traveling nurses find that homeschooling offers a good fit; others hire a tutor. Some simply enroll their children in the local school system.
Outside of the classroom, travel nursing offers a unique educational benefit. Kids get the opportunity to see the country, meet new friends, and enjoy diverse experiences.
Childcare Choices
While school may not be an issue with younger children, childcare is a factor. If you aren’t traveling with a spouse or other family member who can care for your child, look into local daycare centers, home daycares, and on-site caregiving options. Be sure to make these arrangements well in advance to avoid stress in the immediate days leading up to your assignment.
Housing Help
While a one bedroom apartment may be perfect for singles and couples, it may not be large enough for traveling families. In many cases, you can negotiate for a larger apartment.
Or, you can opt out of the provided housing and take the housing stipend instead. This allows you the freedom to find the right home for your family’s needs.
Personality Factors
Personalities are also a factor when deciding whether travel nursing is right for your family. For outgoing kids who adjust well to change, traveling during the school year offers an exciting opportunity. Other children may struggle with the change in setting and routine.
One way to deal with reluctant children? Consider accepting your first travel assignments during school vacation. You can even request to work in a vacation-type setting, such as near the beach or in the mountains.
If you’re unsure about whether travel nursing is right for your family, your recruiter can offer valuable insights to help you find the right job, location, and housing, as well as other resources to ease the transition. And while balancing your family and travel nursing may take some planning and adaptability, doing so can offer many professional and personal rewards.
Have something to add to the conversation? Please share your family’s travel nursing experiences in the “Comments” section below.
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