Young ADON

No, I don't really have any tips for you. I don't think you should be in this position, but that is not what you asked. I am very afraid that you are setting yourself up for failure and a rough start to your nursing career. For instance, right off the bat, here you are having to defend your age/lack of experience to your staff, rather than dealing with more pressing issues.

Have you asked yourself why this facility is willing to hire a (presumably) new grad RN? How many DON's have filled the position in the last 5 years?

In terms of getting the staff to "understand" that you are capable of this position, the only way to do that is by demonstration. You must also demonstrate an understanding and acceptance of the value of experience. Despite your title, there is absolutely no doubt that you have a steep learning curve in front of you, ​as does any new grad RN. Be open to learning experiences that may come from your staff and your patients.

I was 20 and in charge of an entire LTC facility and staff for over a year. It was hard. I did some things right, and I did some things wrong (as far as relating to staff). But I learned tons from the experience and everyone I worked with...even the difficult staff.

My 'two cents' is this-

They already understand that you are the ADON. You don't need to worry about making anyone think that you are 'capable', you just need to do your job to the best of your ability and be fair and understanding to all of your staff. Humility and a willingness to learn from those who are 'under you' in position but 'older than you' in experience will get you far. Watch your back, don't get pulled into, entertain or create drama, if you have any serious meetings with staff have another person there to witness with you. And don't make any quick or drastic changes that your staff will hate. And help them when they need it. :) Hopefully something was of help! All the best!

Did you ever consider it may not just be an issue of your CHRONOLOGICAL age, but more of their concern re your level of experience, front- line clinical and managerial???

You don't comment re your work experience. New management freq comes into a new situation with a 'new broom' that's just so ready to 'sweep' out the old ways. Were the old ways working? That may be contributing to the resistance you're seeing.

I also have concern how you're ending your post. I'm sorry if I may be reading it wrong, but it's like I want to substitute it with another sentence -"because you're the Mommie and that's why". That last sentence came across VERY 'power struggle-y' to me. Maybe they feel it too?