Foster Respite Care

Tonight I'm giving my second Toastmasters speech. It's all about foster parenting. Specifically it's about foster respite care. What is "respite care", you ask? That's a good question. Most people I talk to have not heard of foster respite care. When you take in someones children for a few hours or days to give them a break, that's respite care. You're giving the parents respite. Most parents find some sort of respite from their parenting duties. Taking time for yourself is an important part of being a good parent. It not only allows you time to refresh, but it also gives your children an example of how we should make time to take care of ourselves.

Foster parents are more limited than your average parent. They have to follow guidelines and laws set by the state when making decisions about the children in their care. This extends to their choice of caretakers. A foster child can't be left in the care of friend, neighbor, or even family member for long or regular periods of time. Instead they have to rely on other people who are foster licensed.

Have you ever heard this term: "It takes a village to raise a child." It means that parents rely on their social network to be successful. Short breaks and emotional support are a key part the village. Foster respite care providers are at the core of that village.

The state recommends that foster parents get about two days per month of respite care. Unfortunately, there aren't enough people in the system to provide that kind of support. We met a couple at a support group recently who had not been able to find any form of respite in over six months. We offered to take care of the kids for a day, and I believe we have made some very dear friends for doing so.

I believe many people see foster parenting as an on or off issue. Either you open your home to all types of kids, on a moments notice, for an indefinite time, or you don't get involved. But actually it's not like that at all. Some foster parents do open their homes that way. But, they can also offer as little as a few hours here and there. Having a foster license could just mean that you volunteer at your nearest DSHS foster care office. I was told last year that they are understaffed, but they can only accept volunteers who are licensed.

So tonight, I'm crusading for a cause. I'm hoping to open some eyes about getting involved with the foster care program. Perhaps I'll recruit someone new. Maybe I can help someone find a new way to make a difference.