Parents' Perspectives on How Respite Care Impacts Children With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Although respite care is a critical support for families, most research has focused on its impact on caregivers. This mixed-methods study explored the impact of respite care on children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

We surveyed 178 parents and interviewed 31 parents of children and youth with disabilities (ages 6-23) about the ways they observed their children benefiting from overnight respite care. Our research team independently coded the interviews, compared interpretations and refined emerging themes until consensus was achieved.

Multiple benefits were identified, including broadening children's experiences, personal growth, increased autonomy, feeling known and valued, new friendships, experiencing love and spiritual well-being.

These dimensions provide new insights into the mutual impact of respite care and underscore the need to increase children's access to consistent opportunities for extended breaks, especially overnight rest. We explore directions for future research and practice to broaden family support services.