Children's Choice

In-home respite ranges from 1 to 10 hours a day and out of home respite includes up to 12 nights every three months depending on the needs of the child and family. This interval of rest enables parents/caregivers to refuel, replenish and restore their energy and resources to parent children with special needs.  Our homes are licensed by the Maryland Department of Human Resources with criminal background, medical clearance and safety checks.  All respite parents complete specialized training to care for children with special needs.  The individuals served by Children’s Choice are from varied backgrounds and have a myriad of needs.  Young people with mental illness ages 3-17 are referred from parents, caregivers, educators, mental health care providers and all the County agencies. The respite program serves as a bridge for individuals and their families who are in need of temporary relief from the stress of caring for a child with mental illness.