F What Do Families Look For in Respite Providers?
Families entrust respite providers with the ultimate responsibility: the sole care of their loved one. No matter the age of the individual with ASD, the family’s concern over placing this trust in someone else must be respected. Due to the unique challenges associated with autism, parents typically have certain expectations of their respite providers. Above all else, safety is the primary objective. Parents have repeatedly shared how desperately respite services are needed, but only if they feel that their child will be safe in the provider’s care. Understanding the traits of autism, knowing the individual well, and appreciating potential dangers in the environment can help ensure the safest conditions. Flexibility, staying calm during stressful situations, and good problem solving skills are all essential qualities of respite providers that relate directly to keeping everyone safe. Beyond the clear focus on safety, certain professional characteristics are also important when providing respite. Being reliable and punctual are mandatory so the family can count on the services being provided when expected. Confidentiality is another required professional attribute; families are trusting providers to be in their homes and expect that their personal information is kept private. Providers should support the individual’s development by learning how to engage him or her and following the plans the family has in place to increase independence. It is crucial to be as consistent as possible with the family’s instructions. The role of respite provider takes energy, enthusiasm, and creativity as well as a willingness to learn new skills.
they serve is clear and open communication. Expectations of what will happen during respite must be clearly expressed and understood. Details about the individual and the activities to take place should be shared in advance (using the forms in this folder as a guide) as well as information about the respite time after the family returns. Accepting feedback in a professional manner is an important aspect of this communication. Oftentimes, the needs of the individual with autism are complex and may require very specific procedures. Providers should be open to learning about different approaches that might work better when interacting with the person. Therefore, when parents or other professionals provide feedback, the respite provider should take time to listen, willingly accept the feedback, and ask any clarifying questions. Providers should also share what they did with the individual that was successful so the parents can try it as well. This two-way respectful communication will benefit everyone.
Another vital trait that families look for in providers and providers need in the families
• • • • • Parents have shared how desperately respite services are needed, but only if they feel that their child will be safe in the provider’s care.
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