Having respite available at conferences may make the difference between attending and not attending the conference for some families. Conference organizers are beginning to recognize the importance of offering on-site respite programs which provide all parents and caregivers the opportunity to attend parent gatherings, conferences, and other special events. Parents can usually arrange respite locally when meetings are regularly scheduled within the community, but events in distant locations complicate care options. By providing respite at a conference or special event, caregivers are able to attend educational sessions while still being able to check on their children and participate in caregiving.
Respite programs benefit children, providers, and the community.
Children are able to form new friendships, participate in new activities, and learn to celebrate the diversity that exists among them and their peers. Providers, who may range from home health care workers to student volunteers to child care personnel, have the opportunity to gain experience working with children with special needs and will be exposed to inclusive child care. The program may also provide opportunities for community education through the visibility of the program in the hotel or event center in which it is housed and in local media spots. If a respite program is to be provided as part of a larger conference or event, it is essential that it be considered in the beginning of the planning process. If it cannot be, sponsoring agencies should consider offering stipends to families to obtain respite within their local communities.