Respite: Finding Ways to Take Care of Yourself

Children with special needs often react badly to stress; they need us to remain calm and even-tempered even in the face of the most frightening symptoms or the most provocative behavior. A stressed-out, tired-out, emotionally drained parent can't provide that; but how do we manage to recharge our own batteries when it takes so much energy to care for our kids? Here's how to find everything from a respite provider to a support group to an e-mail list of understanding friends.