Autism Association of WA 2020 Annual Report

Short Breaks for Children and Adolescents

Everyone needs a break at times. Our Short Breaks program, also known as Respite, provides a home away from home with fun filled activities for children up to the age of 18 years old. During the short stay, the young people can enjoy the things they

Short Breaks provides an important service for families and children and there are a number of options available, such as support in the family’s own home or a weekend away at one of our homes in the suburbs. It can also include an activity-based program during school holidays; or one-on-one support during the week, including pick up and drop off at school followed by an overnight stay. Our 4 Short Break homes are familiar and homely and provide room to play inside and outside. Each child has their own private bedroom so they can enjoy their own space. During their stay, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and about and participate in their favourite activities. Children are carefully matched based on age, gender and support needs to ensure each child enjoys their stay. Getting away from home provides an additional opportunity for children to form friendships and explore activities they have may not tried before.

Giaan’s Story

“I really love going on Short Breaks, it’s so much fun I have booked in 2 more!... I am hoping that other people can go on Short Breaks to try new activities, become more independent and meet new friends.” Giaan, 17 years. Giaan enjoys her stays at Short Breaks. She enjoys going out for dinner, hanging out, making French toast, and learning different hair styles. At Short Breaks, Giaan gets to do all while hanging out and making friends with girls her age who have similar interests. During her stays, Giaan also learns about tasks around the house such as cooking and shopping – all good skills for any young person to develop, as most mums and dads will tell you!

like to do and explore friendships. They also

have lots of opportunity to build confidence as well as independence skills away from home.

We hope to be able to expand this service in the coming year.

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