Confirming common sense: How relief daycare assists parents of preschool children

Abstract

A small project explored how occasional daycare assisted families perceived by referring agents as needing relief from the pressures of constant child care. The results suggested that ‘common sense’ was confirmed and the underlying practice wisdom behind referrals for relief daycare was validated. Respite daycare does assist families with preschool children by acting as a ‘circuit-breaker’, reducing tension and giving breathing space for both parents and children.