Raising a child with special needs can be one of life’s most rewarding journeys. But it also comes with challenges that require patience, time, and emotional energy, often around the clock. For many families, respite care offers essential relief. It allows carers to step back, recharge, and return to their caregiving roles refreshed and supported.
However, respite care is not just about giving parents and guardians a break. It also provides the children’s developmental, emotional, and social benefits. This article will explore how respite care works, how it supports children with special needs, and how to choose a trusted provider.
What is respite care, and who is it for?
Respite care, also known as STA (Short-Term Accommodation), is short-term care designed to give the primary caregiver of a person with a disability a break from their usual responsibilities. Our service can be flexible, from one-night stays up to two-week stays if needed. For children with special needs, respite care offers more than just supervision—it provides individualised support, consistent routine, and meaningful social interaction.
Who benefits from respite care?
- Children with special needs – They enjoy consistent support, safe environments, and meaningful activities tailored to their interests and needs.
- Parents and carers – It offers valuable time to rest, recharge, or attend to other responsibilities without worry.
- Siblings – Respite gives parents time to focus on other children in the family, helping them feel seen and supported.
- Support professionals – Regular respite care helps workers build stronger, ongoing relationships with both the child and their family.
Why do families of children with special needs use respite?
Families access respite care for many different reasons, and they’re all valid. The common thread is that it helps support long-term well-being, both for children and those who care for them.
Having regular access to structured support means families don’t need to wait for a crisis before asking for help.
How respite care benefits children with special needs
While many people see respite care as a break for parents and carers, it offers just as many rewards for children. A well-structured, supportive environment tailored to a child’s needs can do wonders for their development and confidence. Respite isn’t just time away—it’s time spent growing, connecting, and exploring in a safe and caring space. Key benefits for children include:
- Social interaction – Spending time with peers, support workers, and new faces helps kids improve their communication and form meaningful friendships.
- Routine support – Consistent support with daily tasks like meals, hygiene, and bedtime routines builds independence and reduces stress.
- Skill-building – Whether it’s cooking, games, or community activities, children can learn new skills in a relaxed and enjoyable way.
- Emotional growth – Being supported by new carers encourages trust, self-expression, and resilience.
- Behavioural support – With the right guidance, children can learn how to manage emotions and develop positive habits.
Many kids also love the fresh environment, different experiences, and fun they get to have outside their usual home routine. Over time, this exposure helps them feel more confident, less anxious, and more in control of their world. Discover community-based support options for children with disabilities that can complement the respite care experience and provide long-term developmental benefits.
Who is eligible, and how to access respite services
Accessing respite care is straightforward, especially if your child has a current NDIS plan. In many cases, respite is funded through the Core Supports budget under “Assistance with Daily Living” or “Short-Term Accommodation”.
You may be eligible for funded respite if:
- Your child has a diagnosed disability
- You have an active NDIS plan with relevant funding
- You need support with caring responsibilities and daily tasks
Steps to access NDIS respite services:
- Review your child’s plan to confirm you have the right categories (e.g. Core Supports, STA funding).
- Speak to your NDIS Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to identify service providers in your area.
- Contact the respite provider directly to discuss availability, service options, and personalised care plans.
- Begin services with a flexible schedule that meets your family’s needs.
How do you choose the right respite provider?
Choosing a respite provider is a big step. You’re not just handing over care—you’re trusting someone with your child’s safety, development, and emotional well-being. The right provider will make your child feel supported and respected while also giving you peace of mind. Here’s what to look for:
- Personalised care plans – Do they tailor their support to your child’s specific needs, interests, and routines?
- Trained and experienced staff – Are the support workers trained in disability care and child development, especially for kids with additional needs?
- Flexibility – Can you easily book or reschedule sessions? Is there an understanding of last-minute changes?
- Range of services – Do they offer options like community outings, overnight stays, school holiday programs, and daily living support?
- Clear communication – Will they keep you updated on how your child is doing, raise concerns early, and involve you in decision-making?
A good respite provider builds trust, not just services. Look for someone who listens, adapts, and puts your child first. Learn more about respite care services for children with special needs and how the right provider can make a meaningful difference in your family’s life.
Conclusion: A Lifeline for Families and Children
Caring for a child with special needs takes strength, love, and time, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re looking for support, you can reach out to Our Family Respite to discuss your needs.