Family Service Programs
Respite is sometimes a term people are not familiar with, but it is the number one supportive service for families that have a child with disabilities. It is defined as a “much needed break” from the daily cares and demands of raising a child with special needs. Having a child with a disability can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining on the entire family, but especially the caregivers. Because it is difficult to find anyone qualified or willing to care for their child, these caregivers start to feel isolated and overwhelmed. Respite is designed to give families a chance to relax and re-energize. They are able to spend valuable time alone or with other family members. Many studies over the past 10-15 have found that regular respite decreases stress and depression in the caregiver and it lessons the chance that the child will become abused or neglected.
Over 11 years ago Opportunity Inc. developed Tyler’s Home for Kids with the support of a local couple, Liz and George McKinnon. Having a child of their own with a disability, it was always their dream to have a respite home in their community. Their vision became a reality in 2000 through the efforts of many community volunteers, businesses and agencies when Tyler’s Home became fully licensed to provide respite to children one week thru 17 yrs. Over the past 11 yrs., the program has served nearly 400 children with various disabilities such as Down Syndrome, Autism, ADHD, Cognitive Delays, Spina Bifida and Cerebral Palsy… these are just a few. We also train our staff to care for children with various special medical needs such as tube feedings, diabetes, injectable medications and seizure first aid.
Our wheelchair assessable facility is a home away from home with a computer lab, large enclosed playground, newly renovated great room and four themed bedrooms.
During their stay children not only get their individual personal needs met by trained staff, they have the opportunity to meet new friends, experience community outings, and take part in themed weekends encompassing games, activities and community outings.
Another service offered at Tyler’s Home is Kids Unlimited Early Learning Center…. Our Inclusive Child Care program. The Child Care was started in 2001 and over the years has grown to serve 33 children with or without disabilities. Inclusive means that all children with or without a disability are included in the program~ learning from one another and growing together. Our hands-on learning environment is staffed with specially trained early childhood educators. The child care program serves children one week through 12 years and is open Monday through Friday 6a-6p. Our program has been noted as “Wausau’s best kept secret” by faculty of the NTC Early Childhood Department.
Because Tyler’s Home /Opportunity Inc. is a non-profit agency, it often times becomes difficult to keep up with costs of home maintenance or updating the program’s supplies and equipment as needed… not only to meet the needs of the children, but to also to continue meeting all the licensing requirements. Over the years, the community has continued to be very supportive of our programs. Thank you for your support.
Tyler’s Home Respite Care:
Tyler’s Home offers respite services 24 hours a day/seven days a week. The Home is a fun, safe, state licensed environment for children with disabilities or special medical needs. Children staying at Tyler’s Home experience the “home away from home” setting, themed weekend activities and trained, nurturing staff; while building meaningful relationships with other children. Each child’s stay is individualized to meet his/her needs.
Eligibility:
Children with any disability or special medical need, age one week through 17 years. Completion of the Child Assessment summary packet required prior to stay.
Fees for services:
$14.00 hour/ $150.00 full day.
Contact:
Manager of Family Services at Tyler’s Home for Kids (715) 847-1175
Opportunity Inc’s Civil Rights Compliance plan and Affirmative Action Plan are available to be viewed at any office location.Monday – Friday 8 am – 4 pm.
Opportunity Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Service Provider.
