Episode 11 - Why Foster Parents Need Respite: Rest, Renewal & the Ministry of Foster Care

This week, we’re talking about something that took us over seven years of foster parenting to embrace: respite care. We dive into what respite care is, why it’s essential (not selfish!), and how it can actually strengthen your calling as a foster parent.

You’ll hear:

• Why having “just four kids” felt like a vacation

• The emotional and spiritual cost of fostering

• Why rest is not only okay—it’s biblical

• How respite care prevents burnout and supports long-term placement stability

• Practical ways non-foster parents can make a huge difference by becoming respite providers

We also unpack stats on burnout, share some honest struggles, and reflect on how foster care is ministry—and ministry needs rhythm, including rest.

📖 Scriptures mentioned:

• Mark 6:31 – “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

• Isaiah 1:17 – “Defend the cause of the fatherless…”

• Romans 12:13, Genesis 2:2–3, Matthew 11:28–30, Luke 5:15–16, Ephesians 1:5, John 15:13

If you’re a foster parent feeling tired or guilty about needing a break—this episode is for you. And if you're not a foster parent, we’ll show you exactly how you can step in and be the support that keeps a family going.

👉 Share this episode with a foster parent or someone who wants to help.

📩 Contact Us:
Email: dreamsmallpodcast@gmail.com
Instagram: @dreamsmallpodcast
Facebook: Dream Small Podcast
Twitter/X: @DreamSmallShow

🎵 Music credit:
“Paradise Found” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0