Families of Children Under StressExtra Special Saturday
Extra Special Saturday is designed for children with significant disabilities or who are medically fragile.
Children with significant disabilities or who are medically fragile · Spring and fall Saturdays; Fall 2026 dates: September 19th, October 3rd, November 7th, and November 14th, 10:00am-2:00pm
From focus-ga.org/program/extra-special-saturday ↗About this program
During this special time, children enjoy free play, music therapy, and individualized attention from trained FOCUS caregivers and volunteers. This complimentary specialized childcare gives parents and caregivers the opportunity to rest, run errands, meet a friend for lunch, or simply take a well-deserved break—you deserve it! Hosted in the Spring and Fall— not available during summer months.
A nurse is available at each location to manage G-tube feedings, seizures, and other medical care. Toileting attendants at each location for diaper changes and support restroom reminders. Counselors at each location are knowledgeable and experienced in caring for children with special needs. Ratio of caregiver to child is 1:4, but community volunteers are often on hand to help and play.
Extra Special Saturday takes place at rotating locations across metro Atlanta during the spring and fall. The program is not offered during the summer months. Registration is required; walk-ins are not accepted. Siblings ages 1–12 are welcome.
Questions
Is Extra Special Saturday offered in the summer?
The program is not offered during the summer months.
Is registration required?
Registration is required; walk-ins are not accepted.
Are siblings welcome?
Siblings ages 1–12 are welcome.
What is the caregiver to child ratio?
Ratio of caregiver to child is 1:4, but community volunteers are often on hand to help and play.
What is the age requirement?
Be age 1-12 at the date of respite.
Details
- Who
- Children with significant disabilities or who are medically fragile
- When
- Spring and fall Saturdays; Fall 2026 dates: September 19th, October 3rd, November 7th, and November 14th, 10:00am-2:00pm
- Where
- Rotating locations across metro Atlanta
- Ages
- 1-12
Run by
Parent SupportFreeFOCUS offers a variety of supportive services to our parents whose kiddos have lifelong developmental disabilities.
Share GroupsFreeShare Groups are free, monthly support groups for parents and primary caregivers, meeting from September through May in various locations across Metro Atlanta.
Hospital VisitsWhen a FOCUS kiddo is in the hospital, we come to them, offering support, a quick visit, and a few goodies to brighten the day.