Successful programs are versatile and creative in their approach to programming for families. Parent involvement is important in improving social, psychological, and educational outcomes for all children. It is important to remember that parents can become even more frustrated if they are not notified about their child's development unless the news is bad or after the child has fallen so far behind that catching up seems impossible. Good communication will ensure the most effective collaboration of services. Care providers also need to recognize that not all parents will be able or willing to become actively involved in the respite program.
Some respite workers are comfortable caring for several siblings at a time.
Others may not want to or may feel they are not qualified. Again, leave it up to families to negotiate how siblings are to be dealt with. One possible approach is for providers to stagger their involvement by including activities with siblings every other visit or once a month, for example. Breaks in routine could lead to a tired, hungry, irritable child, and more likely, frequent tantrums. Parents also can instruct providers in the kinds of reinforcement their children respond to best.