The emotional toll that comes with being a foster parent can be overwhelming at times, which is why it is important for foster parents to take the necessary breaks. Although foster parents love what they do, there are many challenges that foster parents often face that can be stressful and overwhelming. They often have additional parenting challenges that differ from parenting their own biological children such as navigating birth family relationships, complex emotional and behavioral needs, therapy and psychiatrist appointments, the foster care system, social worker visits and much more. This is why respite is an essential part of foster care.
For those that are unaware, respite is when a child that is placed with your family goes to stay with someone else for a short period of time, anywhere from a few hours to a few days to a few weeks. Although some people think that respite can be confusing or hard for children, it is no different than your own children going to their friends, grandparents or another family members’ home for a few hours or a weekend. It is important to take those needed breaks to avoid burning out and to give yourself the much-needed time to relax and recharge. Respite is beneficial for all parties. Children often enjoy their respite visits, and it is a great break for not only the foster parent but also the child as well.
Family Works is unique because they provide their foster parents with 3 respite credits a month for each child. Each credit is for one overnight. These credits do not disappear at the end of the month if they go unused so they will compile for when they are needed for that child. For foster parents with Family Works, I am sure you have heard your social worker stress the importance of taking respite as needed. We encourage our foster parents to take the respite. Take the break. Take the time you need to recharge so that you can be 100% present for your kids when they return.
For anyone reading this that is considering becoming a respite provider to help support foster parents and foster children, please reach out and we will work with you to get the respite process started!
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