Raising our daughter JJ, a 5-year-old with autism, is endlessly rewarding. But let's face it, the constant care is a marathon, not a sprint. That's where respite care really helps us – it's amazing how much some time to yourself can help your mental health!
Respite care is like a pit stop for caregivers. Through Alta Regional Center, we receive respite care from Pacific Homecare Services for a little break once a week. A fantastic caregiver comes to our house for 3 hours, giving us precious time to recharge. This could be running errands that are tricky with JJ, enjoying the driving range, or simply having some quiet time for ourselves.
It's important to remember that respite care isn't therapy – it's purely about giving caregivers a break. To ensure a smooth experience, we prep a bag of JJ's favorite activities and give clear instructions for the caregiver. This allows us to return feeling refreshed and ready to be the best parents we can be!
If you're a parent of an autistic child feeling burnt out, consider exploring respite care options. It might be the game-changer you need. Remember, taking care of yourself is the best way to take care of your amazing kid.
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