Extra Special Saturday Respite

Eligibility

• Have a physical and/or developmental disabilities, including rare genetic syndromes, cerebral palsy, autism, and Down syndrome.
• FOCUS Kid must be between ages 1-12 on date of respite.
• Must be willing to stay with a group and function in a 1:4 caregiver to child ratio.
• Have no recent instances of elopement or wandering away.

What makes FOCUS Respite special

• A nurse is available at each location to manage G-tube feedings, seizures, and other medical care.
• A Male & Female toileting attendant is at each location for diaper changes and support restroom reminders.
• Staff is knowledgeable and experienced in caring for children with special needs.
• Ratio of caregiver to child is 1:4, but community volunteers are often on hand to help and play.

Other information

• Time: 10AM-2PM
• We don’t charge any fees at Extra Special Saturday respite childcare. We are happy to accept donations of any amount. Most parents choose to give about $5 for each child they have at respite.
• Registration required.
• Siblings welcome.
• Attendees will pack a cold, nut free, lunch with a drink.
• Parents will label all items, pack extra clothes, diapers & any medication (must be in prescription bottle, with correct dosage on label). 
• If your child has not attended a childcare program with FOCUS before (or it has been a few years), we will contact you after you register and complete the application. We will ask you a few questions regarding your child’s care, medical needs, and behavioral issues. After a discussion with you, we will determine whether we can safely care for your child in our programs. We strive to accommodate as many children as possible but need to ensure that we can do that safely in a group setting. (FOCUS Childcare programs are not designed for children who need 1:1 behavioral support.)
• FOCUS cannot accommodate children who have aggressive or harmful behaviors to self or others.