Mothers Respite Weekends

Pampering… fun… workshops… laughter… and sharing in the joys and challenges of parenting a child with special needs

Mothers Respite Weekends have been held in Western Australia since 1983. The weekends, which are usually held twice yearly in May and November, are attended by between 50 and 120 mothers of children with special needs.

These low cost weekends provide an opportunity for fun, friendship, rest and the opportunity to take part in a range of workshops. They provide mothers with a break from the stresses of caring, a chance to be themselves, to make new friends and to get away from the pressures and strains of the parenting tasks which consume most of their time.

Activities vary from camp to camp, but always include a balance of workshops and pampering, and a dinner on the Saturday night. Nothing is mandatory! You may join in any activities you desire, but may like to just take the weekend to have some quiet time, catch up on sleep or talk with friends – new and old.

Workshops provide a forum where the mothers have access to information, an opportunity to form networks and where they can learn new skills. Some of the topics covered at camps have included: journal process, sensuality, sushi making, dealing with anger, sibling issues, growing older with your child, silk-ribbon rope making, tie-dying, accommodation for older children and more. There also may be opportunities to practice meditation, Tai Chi, yoga or join a dance or drumming workshop.

Pampering sessions are a popular part of the weekends and generally include Reiki, foot massages, massage, manicures and hairdressing.

Mothers Respite Weekends for 2010

21st – 23rd May 2010

Fairbridge, Pinjarra, WA

19th - 21st November 2010

Alfred Hines Seaside Camp, Rockingham, WA

Come join us for a weekend of relaxation, fun and a chance to meet other mothers!

Register Now

You can register by downloading the Registration Form OR by registering on-line (on-line and off-line payments available).

Registrations close 2 weeks before all events.

Please note registrations are not complete until payment has been received. 

Kalparrin acknowledges the Channel 7 Telethon Trust for supporting the 2010 Mothers Respite Weekends.