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How to Become a Respite Provider in New York City

November 4, 2026

Respite providers give families of children with behavioral health challenges a break. If you are patient, reliable and good with kids, it is meaningful work you can start with a high school diploma.

What a respite provider does

Respite is short-term care for a child so parents and caregivers can rest. In New York's Children's Waiver it comes in two forms: planned respite, scheduled ahead, and crisis respite, for when a crisis is building. As a respite provider you:

• Care for a child or teen at home or in the community while the family takes a break
• Plan and lead positive activities
• Help the child practice social skills
• Make sure the child feels safe and supported

What you need

For FSS NY's Respite Provider role:

• A high school diploma or equivalent
• Experience with children or youth (preferred)
• Compassion, patience and reliability
• All required clearances and trainings, completed before you start

Schedules

Respite fits around school and family life. Our providers work one-on-one with children after school and on weekends, part-time or full-time.

Thinking about ABA work too?

FSS NY also hires ABA providers. Liftoff ABA explains how RBTs and BCBAs share the work in ABA therapy.

Where the work is

We staff providers across Long Island and all five boroughs of New York City. See the areas we serve.

How to apply

See the pay and details on the Respite Provider job page, then fill out the application there or email staff@fssny.org. Questions? Call or text 516-400-3040.

Questions?

Call or text 516-400-3040. Email info@fssny.org about programs or staff@fssny.org about jobs.

More From Our Blog

• What Is Youth Peer Support? A Guide for New York Families
• How to Become a Youth Peer Advocate in New York
• How to Become a Certified Peer Specialist in New York