What Kids Say About Respite

What do kids say about Respites? For many children, life during illness, whether their own or a family member’s, can feel overshadowed by doctor’s appointments, treatments, and stress.  Respite gives them, and their families, a chance to step outside those routines and stress. Whether it’s splashing in the ocean, exploring a museum, or roasting marshmallows under the stars, children experience moments that let them just be kids.

In this blog, we’ll share what kids experience during their Respite weeks, what families have said about their time away, and how these trips bring lasting memories long after the trip is over.

Note: A Week Away offers Urban, Beach, Local, and Rustic Respites, so every family can find the perfect place to rest, play, and reconnect.

Just Being a Kid Again

When a child or parent is living with illness, kids can sometimes feel the weight of adult worries. A Respite gives them the freedom to laugh, play, and explore, without that weight on their shoulders.

• Livvy Lynch shared how much she loved simply being at the beach, splashing in the waves with her family.
• The Mizak Family remembered their beach Respite as a time filled with sand, sun, and fun. The kids played by the ocean, explored the boardwalk, and spent hours laughing together at amusement parks like Speed World.

At our Beach Respites, children can build sandcastles, race down the boardwalk for ice cream, or try their hand at mini golf. From amusement park rides to quirky discoveries at Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, every day brings a new adventure. Most importantly, these moments give kids the chance to let go of worries and enjoy being a kid.

Exploring the World Together

A Respite isn’t only about rest; it’s also about discovery. Traveling to a new place allows kids and families to experience the world in a new way.

With Urban Respites like Philadelphia, families can climb the famous Rocky steps, visit the Liberty Bell, or step back in time at Independence Hall. For kids, cities open up a world of possibilities,  from tasting new foods to exploring museums, zoos, and hands-on experiences.

As the Robinson Family shared, “We really appreciate the wonderful experience that you have given us. The trip for the week was exactly what we needed to regroup as a family and enjoy one another on good terms.”

Family Moments That Last

One of the most meaningful parts of a Respite is how it brings families closer. Away from daily routines, kids get to enjoy uninterrupted time with the people they love.

Sometimes that looks like a Local Respite, staying nearby but doing local activities. Families have spent the week going to the movies, playing mini golf, or visiting places they’ve always wanted to see in their own community.

The Schaefer Family chose local experiences like the Turkey Hill Experience and visiting horses. For them, the highlight wasn’t just the outings, it was being together without distraction.

“We had an amazing time as a family. Made good family memories and relaxed. We came home feeling relaxed and ready for life — real life. Thank you for everything. We were able to build memories as a family. That’s what our boys will remember — not the hospital visits or the pin-pricks.” - The Schaefer Family

Other families choose Rustic Respites in the Poconos. Kids can hike, swim, or try ziplining during the day, then relax with their family in a quiet cabin at night.

No matter the setting, a Respite is about connection. It gives families space to share experiences, ease stress, and create memories that stay with them long after the week is over.

Respites Are More Than Vacations

For children, a Respite is a chance to be carefree, play, and explore. For families, it’s intentional time together, away from everyday stress, where they can reconnect and enjoy each other fully.

Do you know a child or family who could benefit from a Respite? Visit aweekaway.org/receive to nominate or support a family. Together, we can create moments that let children simply be kids  and families simply be together.