Caregiving & Respite Care

Respite is planned or emergency care provided to a child or adult with special needs in order to provide temporary relief to family caregivers who are caring for that child or adult. Respite care can be utilized on a regular or irregular basis and can be provided by family members, friends, skilled care providers or professionals. Providers, usually chosen by the family, care for children or adults with special needs while families take a class, go to a movie, go on a vacation, or enjoy any activity.

Caretakers of children or adults with special needs often face stress as a result of balancing the needs of their child with special needs with the needs of other family members. Respite care allows you time to tend to the needs of your other children, spouse, and yourself.

If you do not see what you are looking for, try searching the Family SHADE database or calling Family SHADE at 1-855-755-7423.

Children and Families First
referral database for childcare and respite, protective services, mental health counseling

Delaware Autism Program (DAP)
public school program for children with autism spectrum disorder

Delaware Family Voices
help navigating healthcare services and insurance issues

Delaware Lifespan Respite Care Network
information and financial assistance with respite care

Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS)
reimbursement, respite, parent training, in-home care and other social supports

Easter Seals Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore
therapy, early intervention services, day programs, respite and resources

Faith in Action
day-to-day assistance such as; transportation, homemaking, respite care

Nurses ‘n Kids Pediatric Medical Program
skilled child care and therapy

United Cerebral Palsy (UCP), Delaware Chapter
programs and services for individuals with Cerebral Palsy and other disabilities