Using Support Time Effectively: Ideas for Support During a Shift

Using Support Time Effectively: Ideas for Support During a Shift

At LIVEWELL, our goal is to help families feel supported. Care Partners are here to work alongside you to promote your loved one’s independence, well-being, and quality of life. But we understand it can be hard to know what to ask for, especially when you’ve been doing it all yourself.

Here’s a list of ways Care Partners can support your child or family member during their shift.


Examples of Support Care Partners Can Offer:

Daily Living & Personal Care:

  • Reminding your child to use the restroom

  • Assisting with grooming, bathing, or brushing hair

  • Helping with dressing or choosing weather-appropriate clothing

  • Preparing and serving snacks or meals

  • Encouraging hydration or healthy food choices

Community Access & Activities:

  • Accompanying your loved one on a walk or to the park

  • Attending a class, event, or social group with them

  • Helping with public transportation or learning a route

  • Supporting participation in a hobby or interest (e.g., music, art, games)

Household & Skill-Building Support:

  • Guiding your child through simple chores (laundry, making bed)

  • Helping write a grocery list or practice money handling

  • Encouraging use of a calendar, checklist, or routine chart

  • Practicing self-advocacy or communication tools
    ​​​​​

Emotional and Social Support:

  • Being a companion and engaging in conversation: reading together, playing games, or listening to music

  • Sensory-friendly activities like fidget play, kinetic sand, or water painting

  • Supporting the use of calming tools or behavior strategies (as outlined in a behavior plan)

  • Modeling and supporting calming strategies: deep breathing, stretching, listening to calming sounds

  • Creating a fun, safe, and consistent environment during their time together


Sample Shift Ideas

Example 1: After-School Routine (Weekday, 3 PM – 6 PM)

  • Help with snack and hygiene

  • Assist with homework or reading

  • Engage in outdoor play or a walk

  • Light household support with the child (e.g., folding laundry)

  • Prepare a light dinner or assist with evening routine

Example 2: Saturday Community Outing (Weekend, 11 AM – 3 PM)

  • Support with dressing and packing a bag

  • Go on a bus outing to the library

  • Help check out books and engage in reading time

  • Return home, prepare a snack, and decompress with a sensory activity


Not Sure What to Ask For?

Your Care Partner is there to help your loved one grow, and also to give you time to breathe. Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks — your mental health and capacity matter, too.

Tip: Every shift doesn’t need to be packed — even small moments of connection and routine can make a big difference. Care looks different for every family, and our team is always here if you'd like help creating a support plan that works for you.

If you ever have questions about what your Care Partner can or should be doing, feel free to reach out to your LIVEWELL Care Team or Submit a Support Ticket.




    • Related Articles

    • What Services Does LIVEWELL Provide

      LIVEWELL Home Care provides non-medical in-home support services designed to promote independence, safety, and quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities. We currently offer two main service types: 1. Personal Assistance Services ...
    • What Do I Do If I Can't Make My Scheduled Shift?

      We understand that emergencies, illness, and personal responsibilities can occasionally prevent you from working a scheduled shift. Whether you're a Family-Selected Care Partner or an Agency-Selected Provider, notifying LIVEWELL as soon as possible ...
    • What Happens If My Care Partner Cancels

      We understand that from time to time, Care Partners may need to cancel a shift due to illness, emergencies, or personal obligations. LIVEWELL is here to help you navigate these situations with as little disruption as possible. If You Have a ...
    • How Do I Submit My Timesheet?

      Submitting your timesheet is now easier than ever with our new online system. You can access the form directly by visiting: lwhcare.com/timesheet or go to www.lwhcare.com, click “Care Partner” in the top right corner, then select “Submit Timesheet.” ...
    • How Do I Correct a Timesheet Once Submitted

      If you notice an error after submitting your timesheet — such as a missing shift, incorrect time, or wrong date — it’s important to report it promptly so your hours can be corrected and processed for payment. LIVEWELL offers two ways to make ...