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So in an earlier post I described respite care, – 
If you aren’t sure what respite is, here is the brief explanation of respite:
Respite care is the short-term care of a very dependent or difficult child which enables the parents – birth, foster or adoptive – to take a break. Some children’s needs require round-the-clock intensive care and parents can soon become burned out. Respite fostering is often very rewarding, and a close relationship can grow up between families over the years.
Now, how do you get respite for yourself?
Well, a few agencies will have trained respite providers – check first with your agency or local DHS office. Ask if they have or can refer you to a respite provider.
Pull out your phone book and call the local foster agencies, ask them if they have trained respite providers.
Train one yourself! Find another mom who is willing to trade with you. My neighbor and I are doing that, starting with one hour per week and building up to evenings out. We are first going WITH our child for a few times to each others homes. We talk about food issues, potty training and everything else they may need to know.
Ask your local churches if they offer Moms mornings or Nights out. Many have trained foster parents or day care providers that do the care.
Is there a sponsored city or county day care? Often this is subsidized, low cost day care for working families who cannot afford it, however they may have specially trained workers to take your child.
Most importantly, Don’t give up! Find a way to take a break – especially if you have special needs.
Need more info on respite? Adoption.com has a whole section here
More ideas? Leave your comments below! Thanks
