A Break That Builds: How Respite Care Supports Foster Families and Children

Being a foster parent can be one of the most rewarding positions a person can have. Providing a safe, loving home for a child offers an incredible experience for both the foster parent and the foster child. But what happens when that parent needs a break? This is where respite care comes in.

Respite foster care can offer temporary care for children in foster care, giving full-time foster parents a short-term break. Respite gives foster parents the time for personal needs they may not be able to address with children around. This can include recovering from a medical procedure, going on vacations that were previously scheduled or that the child cannot attend due to travel restrictions set by the Department of Child Services, or simply needing uninterrupted time to deep clean the home.

Organizations that match foster children and families typically don’t like to offer respite within the first 30 days of placement to allow the child to acclimate to their surroundings. This 30-day time period also allows for the child to understand that going into a new home for respite and having that break from their foster family isn’t a negative thing or a punishment – it’s just a break! It’s important for them to understand that other kids get breaks from their parents when they spend the night at a friend’s house or spend the day with relatives, and respite is a similar situation.

So, how does it work? Each child within the licensed child placement agency has a foster care support specialist assigned to them. When respite is needed, the foster family notifies the support specialist. If the child has previously stayed in a respite home, the agency will contact that home first to help ensure a smooth and comfortable transition before reaching out to other available respite homes in the area.Respite can last from one day to several weeks depending on the needs of the family. All foster parents licensed through Centerstone are provided two paid respite days per month.

Just like a full-time foster parents, respite foster parents must be licensed and complete a home study and a background check. When foster parents become licensed, they may choose to be a respite home only or a full-time foster home.

Prior to the respite period, it’s important for foster parents and the respite foster home to communicate about the child’s needs. Foster parents should disclose any medications, health concerns, or relevant preferences the child has. Respite families should inform the foster parents of anything the child will need during their stay such as a swimsuit or shoes suitable for outdoor play.

Opening your heart, and your home, to a child in need can change lives. Whether you’re providing full-time care or stepping in as a respite provider, your role matters. Every moment of support, stability, and kindness can make a lasting impact on a child’s life. If you’ve ever considered fostering, now is the perfect time to take that first step. By opening your home, you can offer a safe place and a fresh start for a child who needs it most. Get started on your foster care journey with Centerstone today.